Built in 1880 to replace an earlier covered bridge, the Buskirk Covered Bridge is a one-lane, 14-panel, patented, Howe-truss structure (timber diagonals with vertical iron rods) with a total length of about 160 feet, connecting Washington and Rensselaer Counties. Over the years, it has been raised several times to reduce its susceptibility to destruction by flood waters. Various portions of the native spruce timber chords have been either reinforced or replaced; the floor beams have been reinforced; the roof system has been replaced; and the wood decking has been replaced. Despite this work, the live load rating of the bridge was recently reduced from 12 tons to 6 tons due to structural deterioration. RBA was retained by Washington County to perform a preliminary structural assessment of the bridge to observe and comment on the existing condition of the timber bridge framing and to develop recommendations and preliminary costs for rehabilitation/repair work needed to restore the integrity of the original historic structural framing systems. RBA’s study, related historic information, and measured drawings were incorporated into a Historic Structure Report for the bridge that was used to apply for historic preservation funds to make the recommended repairs. These include a major overhaul to rehabilitate the main trusses and restore the original floor system. RBA was selected to design the recommended rehabilitation of the Buskirk Covered Bridge, and to provide inspection services during construction. The goal of this work is to restore the load rating of the bridge to 12 tons.
