Crawford Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation Earns ABCD Outstanding Multi-Span Bridge Award

CONNELLSVILLE, PA—The PA 711 Crawford Avenue Bridge Rehabilitation project has been honored with the 2024 Outstanding New Multi-Span Bridge Award by the Association for Bridge Construction & Design (ABCD) Pittsburgh Chapter. The award recognizes the project team’s innovative approach to transforming a deteriorating structure into a modern, low-maintenance, multimodal crossing that enhances safety and accessibility.

Locally known as the Officer McCray Robb Memorial Bridge, the structure provides a critical link for residents, businesses and recreational users in downtown Connellsville, Pennsylvania. Originally built in 1959, the aging bridge required extensive structural and safety upgrades. Benesch was selected by PennDOT District 12-0 to perform an in-depth inspection and lead the project through preliminary design, final design and construction services.

The project replaced the original steel beam pin-and-hanger system with a more reliable continuous steel beam superstructure. This approach not only improves structural performance but also minimizes future maintenance costs by reducing the number of deck joints from seven to one. To further strengthen the structure, the team implemented a “deadman” system at the west abutment, which involved burying a large concrete block and securing it to the existing structure. This solution allowed the project team to avoid completely replacing a pier or an abutment.

The project also addressed the outdated USGS Connellsville gage station on the Youghiogheny River. The existing 50-year-old concrete tower was replaced with a modern compact stream gage system that is mounted to the barrier and blends in with the new bridge.

Additional enhancements included the addition of a new shared-use path and sidewalk, as well as upgraded ramps to meet current ADA standards. The existing 28-inch railings were replaced with 44-inch-tall open balustrade concrete barriers, providing increased protection for pedestrians and bicyclists along with improved aesthetics for both users and the city. Modern decorative lighting was also installed to enhance visibility.

The award was presented on May 14 during ABCD Pittsburgh’s annual awards dinner in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.