Historic Great Crossings Bridge Off-Limits for Safety, U.S. Army Corps Urge Caution in Pittsburgh District

The once-submerged Great Crossings Bridge, a historical structure built in 1818, has now been deemed off-limits to the public by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District due to concerns over its stability. The bridge, which became visible after a drought led to uncommonly low water levels in the Youghiogheny River Lake, has captured the attention and curiosity of many, but officials are urging caution.

Amidst safety fears, the district has taken measures to prevent access by posting signs and barriers around the aging cut sandstone bridge, as

WTAE

reported. The structure, previously submerged after the creation of the Yough Dam in the 1940s, is not maintained by the district, which has expressed its inability to “guarantee its structural integrity.” Visitors are also being advised against boating or traveling under the bridge.

Col. Nicholas Melin, the commander of the Pittsburgh District, emphasized public safety in his statement, acknowledging the excitement over the bridge’s reappearance but underscoring the need for precaution. “However, the safety of our visitors is our top priority. Given the bridge’s uncertain structural integrity, we have made the decision to restrict access to the bridge,” Col. Melin stated, as per

TribLIVE

. While some areas near the bridge remain open, visitors are discouraged from removing anything from the bridge to prevent potential hazards.

This bridge once carried Route 40 over the Yough River, connecting Somerset and Fayette counties and serving as a significant thoroughfare.

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