Adopt a historic bridge

Adopting a piece of Texas history

Texas’ vast road network includes a number of historically significant bridges, many built before World War II. No longer safe for vehicular use, these vintage bridges can still contribute to the community through new purposes.

The Historic Bridge Legacy Program makes certain historic bridges available for public use once TxDOT engineers determine the bridges are no longer sufficient to carry vehicular traffic. These increasingly rare bridges may create new legacies for the community to enjoy in a park or on a hike-and-bike trail.

Learn more about the program guidelines on how to adopt a historic bridge. We currently have several bridges available for adoption below.

• Frequently asked questions
• The process of moving a bridge
• Sample costs

Success stories

• Moving the Labatt Bridge to the Historic El Camino Real Hike and Bike Trail
• Take a Virtual Tour of Truss Bridges in Denton County

Ready to apply?

Watch this webinar on New Uses for Old Bridges. Then, download this checklist for drafting your proposal.

Bridges available for adoption

• County Road 146 at Birch Creek
• County Road 232 at San Marcos River
• County Road 382 at Resley Creek
• County Road 392 at Resley Creek
• County Road 462 at Sandy Fork Creek
• County Road 309 at Clear Fork Brazos River
• US 281A at Atascosa River
• State Highway (SH 202) at Blanco Creek

More information

• Texas historic bridges
• Tools and information for historic bridge owners