In the market for a historic truss bridge? If so, you may be interested to know more about TxDOT's historic bridge marketing program. Before we remove old bridges from state highways, county roads and city streets, the state markets these antique spans to the public for use at new locations. Limited federal monies are available and may cover minor repair and possibly relocation.

Uses for Historic Bridges

Bridges acquired through the program can be used for almost any purpose. During the past 10 years, recipients have moved trusses to golf courses, recreation parks, hike and-bike trails, pedestrian walkways and private roads.

Bridge Characteristics

All bridges are offered as is. Most of the marketed spans are relatively lightweight metal trusses and can be moved in one piece, with no disassembly required.

A typical truss weighs 10 to 15 tons (without the deck), and is 50 to 150 feet long and 10 to 18 foot wide.

Bridge Marketing Calendar

TxDOT markets bridges at various time throughout the year. Through newspapers and other media, TxDOT gets the word out to the public when spans are available. TxDOT also sends out information packets on available bridges to individuals and entities on its bridge marketing mailing list.

Each information packet contains detailed location and structural information on the bridges, as well as instructions and deadlines for preparing a bridge reuse proposal.

Evaluation of Proposals

TxDOT evaluates all received proposals in consultation with the Texas Historical Commission. Uses that keep a historic truss bridge accessible to public and that are sensitive to its historic fabric are given preference in the selection process.

If you want to add your name to TxDOT's historic bridge marketing list, you can e-mail us or phone (512) 416-2628.