TRANSPORTATION
Merchants Bridge First Truss Replacement
Walsh Construction reaches a significant milestone in the rehabilitation of the Terminal Railroad Association of St. Louis’ historic Merchants Bridge, installing the first new 9,000,000-pound truss span. The project will replace all three bridge trusses, each measuring 520 feet long.
The Merchants Bridge rehabilitation focuses on the main span truss and east approach which will allow both tracks to become serviceable on the bridge at the same time. Previously, rail and maritime traffic had become congested due to outdated limitations, necessary repairs and continued maintenance. Doubling the capacity of the bridge will assist in meeting the projected future freight and passenger rail demand and reduce delays for motorists and emergency vehicles. With the improvements being made, the historic bridge can continue to be an important link between Illinois and Missouri for passengers and freight alike.