The American Institute of Steel Construction and the National Steel Bridge Alliance recently awarded the State Route 34B Bridge over Salmon Creek in Tompkins County, N.Y., with the 2024 Prize Bridge Merit Award in the Medium Span category.
The biennial awards honor significant and innovative steel bridges. The award is the highest recognition bestowed by the U.S. structural steel industry.
“This award-winning bridge is a testament to New York’s dedication to innovation and the pursuit of excellence as we continue to prioritize infrastructure for all modes of travel,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “As a vital transportation link in the Southern Tier, the Route 34B bridge significantly enhances connectivity, sustainability and accessibility while supporting tourism and economic development throughout the Southern Tier.”
State Route 34B Bridge won for its engineering innovation, advanced steel construction techniques, and unique aesthetics. It runs between Cayuga Lake and Owasco Lake in the Finger Lakes Region and carries nearly 7,500 vehicles daily.
The $18.4 million bridge replacement project was completed in 2022. The new bridge has an estimated service life of 75 years and spans 500 feet 120 feet above the Salmon Creek.
The bridge contains many resilient features such as a redundant structure type, jointless abutments, and eliminating fatigue-prone details.