"City officials decided a wood structure would be preferable, based on its appearance and the value of using a natural material."

This graceful asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge across the Saco River connects homes in Hart’s Location, NH to the outside world and carries skiers and hikers to Mount Washington. Designers were challenged by the special requirements set down for the new bridge which directed that the span be unobtrusive with environmental appeal, require low maintenance, not impede the spring runoff, and be built within a limited budget.

Basic materials include glued laminated timber girders and deck, galvanized steel pipe railings,a 16 m (53 ft) steel tower and galvanized cables.  The unique structure is the only asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge in New England.  Because of the creative design, there are no piers in the Saco River to impede spring runoff or impact this classic New Hampshire trout stream.

The bridge is 50 m (165 ft ) long.  It is handicap accessible, with a 1.5 m (5 ft) width which provides enough space for a wheelchair to turn around.

This text and photographs have been provided courtesy of the APA -Engineered Wood Association, USA.