General Description of Structure
The Cocalico #2 Bridge is a single span, covered wooden bridge. The superstructure consists of Burr-type wood trusses in combination with a double arch and steel hanger rods. The deck system consists of transverse wooden floor beams supporting longitudinal wooden stringers which support a transverse sub-deck of spread oak planks and a longitudinal wearing surface of oak timber.
The span is 54 feet. The clear deck width is 13 feet, 3 inches. The underclearance is 10 feet. The skew of the bridge is 90 degrees. The clearance above the bridge deck is 11'-6".
The bridge is in good condition.
For sketches of the plan, elevation, and section of bridge, see Engineers Report for Inspection of Cocalico Bridge No.2, 1987, by Hegarty Engineers Inc.
Field Inspection History
The initial inspection of this bridge was done, in the present format, in 1985 by Huth Engineers, Inc. Subsequent inspections were performed in 1987 by Hegarty Engineers Inc., and in 1989 and 1991 by the Office of the County Engineer.
Since the 1991 inspection, the County has not made any repairs to the bridge.
Approaches
The bituminous approach roadways are in fair condition with no major problems noted. A substantial reduction in speed is necessary due to the significant transition bump at the south approach. There are no steel guide rails, only stone masonry parapets as part of the wing walls. At the north approach, the paved shoulders are eroding. At the south approach, water appears to be running on to the bridge. There is a 6" x 18" spall in the asphalt at the north transition .
Posting
The bridge is currently posted for a 4-tons weight limit and 11'-6" vertical clearance. It is the County's policy to post all covered wooden bridges that are not in need of repair for a maximum weight limit of 5-tons.
Deck
The deck is in fair condition. Many of the longitudinal oak boards are splitting at the ends
Superstructure
All superstructure members are currently in good condition. There is some minor impact damage to the inside of the upstream arches at the north and south ends.
Substructure
The reinforced concrete/stone abutments are in good condition. On the upstream side of the north and south abutments there is some horizontal displacement of some stones near grade. The mortar pointing is beginning to deteriorate near the water line.
Channel
The channel alignment is good. No scour is noted. There is some slumping of the downstream bank on the north side.
