Wellsville Bridge Improvements

What Was the Challenge?

The Madison Street Bridge, originally constructed in 1970, featured a three-span prestressed slab unit superstructure with conventional concrete substructures. The bridge exhibited deficiencies that required significant structural improvements to ensure safe passage over the WNY & PA Railroad. The bridge is located in an urban context within the Village of Wellsville and faced several challenges due to the tight site, utilities, and railroad coordination. The project aimed to modernize the structure while minimizing costs and disruptions. Allegany County Department of Public Works and Barton & Loguidice worked together for design, construction inspection, and administration services.

How Did Barton & Loguidice Provide a Solution?

Barton & Loguidice designed a solution to replace the existing three-span structure with a simplified single-span bridge. Spans one and three were filled using a fill-type retaining wall system, while the center span was reconstructed with a 37-foot, 6-inch prestressed concrete hollow slab unit superstructure with a concrete deck. By retaining and rehabilitating the existing substructures, including pier cap replacement and Class D concrete repairs, B&L provided a cost-effective approach to address the bridge’s deficiencies.

The new design incorporated modern features such as elastomeric bearings, approach slabs with semi-integral abutment details to eliminate bridge joints, and enhanced pedestrian safety elements including concrete sidewalks, curbs, parapets, and fencing. Approximately 135 feet of full-depth roadway reconstruction tied the new bridge seamlessly into the existing approaches. The project also included lead paint removal, concrete resealing, right-of-way acquisitions, and coordination with the WNY & PA Railroad to ensure minimal disruption during construction.

Why Was This Project a Success?

The Madison Street Bridge replacement successfully addressed structural deficiencies while simplifying the design to a single span, reducing long-term maintenance needs and improving cost efficiency. Retaining and rehabilitating existing substructures minimized construction impacts and expenses, while the modernized superstructure and safety features enhanced durability and pedestrian accessibility. The project was delivered successfully using STIP funding, ensuring a safe, reliable crossing over the railroad and providing long-term value to Allegany County.