HEB Designs Unique Leaning Timber Arch Bridge

     North Conway, New Hampshire – H.E. Bergeron Engineers (HEB) of North Conway and the Town of Houlton, Maine, announce the completion of the Meduxnekeag River Pedestrian Bridge in Houlton, Maine. Inspired by an idea to connect a historic section with a residential area for foot and bicycle travel, the Meduxnekeak River Bridge has become an integral part of the revitalization effort of the Town of Houlton, as well as a link to its past and future. It has surpassed client expectation, focusing attention to the downtown and drawing together a city divided by a natural watercourse. In the words of the Town Manager, “HEB’s design has surpassed all expectations. The bridge has taken on a life of its own as a pivotal aspect of the downtown revitalization effort.”
       Spanning 190 feet, the structure is a unique, leaning timber arch bridge. Perhaps the only lighted, leaning arch bridge in the State of Maine, the design was chosen from six alternates. Considerations for selection included aesthetics, view from the bridge, handicap accessibility, long-term maintenance, compatibility with the downtown area and cost within budget. HEB worked with electrical and landscape consultants to design a structure which would bring a cohesive feel to the town. By designing a lighted pedestrian bridge, the dynamic architectural elements are emphasized by night as well as by day. The natural and man-made elements blend together with the historic and contemporary downtown and residential areas, creating an inviting gateway for people to travel safely from one side of the town to the other on foot or bicycle.
     Handicap accessibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the amenities of the bridge and its surrounding environs. There are benches and well-lighted pathways leading to and from the bridge. Trails branch off from the residential side where  information kiosks and signage are planned as future enhancements.
     Much of the construction process occurred in the winter of 2004. In spite of snowstorms and cold conditions, the arches were bolted together, precisely angled holes were drilled in the five-foot sections to accommodate the deck support rods and then the arches were placed on the abutments. Using a combination of two cranes and a manlift the arches were fitted so that the critical top pin could be placed. Placement of the pin occurred as the sun was going down on a cold day in late January. Decking, railing and lighting elements were added as the winter progressed. Springtime brought warmer weather and the opportunity for the landscaping and amenities to be put into place.
     Whether you are an engineer, architect, visitor or resident of Houlton, you will appreciate the design, aesthetic beauty and functionality of the Meduxnekeag River Bridge.