West German Street over Bellinger Brook Bridge Replacement

What Was the Challenge?

The West German Street Bridge, built in 1920, had far exceeded its service life and exhibited multiple structural deficiencies, including a hole in the concrete deck resulting in a Red Flag and extensive spalling throughout the deck surface. In addition to structural concerns, the bridge’s limited 30-foot span and low rise restricted hydraulic capacity in an area historically prone to flooding. The Village of Herkimer needed a modern bridge that would address structural safety issues, improve stream flow, and accommodate future stream corridor upgrades, all while maintaining access along a key route through the Village.

How did Barton & Loguidice Provide a Solution?

B&L provided preliminary and final design services as well as the construction administration and inspection. The new bridge was constructed with 75-foot prestressed concrete beams on a 50-degree skew to accommodate the widened 45-foot stream channel, which significantly improves hydraulic performance and reduces flooding risk. This longer span and need to raise the low beam elevation required raising the road profile up to 3 feet, which resulted in approximately 700 feet of highway reconstruction, including two nearby intersections. New sidewalks, curbs, closed drainage as well as multiple utility relocations were all necessary in this Village setting.

This project was stalled during the design phase when the available BridgeNY funding fell short of the cost to complete the scope of the project that was needed for this site.  B&L worked to secure additional funding from the NYSDEC and a Congressional line item, resulting in a minimal local share.

Why Was This Project a Success?

The replacement bridge provides a safer, more resilient crossing that meets current standards and addresses longstanding flooding challenges in the Village of Herkimer. By increasing the span, raising the roadway, and modernizing the structure, the project improves stream conveyance, reduces the risk of future damage, and enhances mobility for the traveling public. Comprehensive roadway, drainage, and utility improvements ensure that the surrounding corridor functions efficiently and reliably for years to come.