Checkered House Bridge Widening
Originally constructed after the epic 1927 flood, the Checkered House Bridge remains one of only three Pennsylvania trusses in Vermont. The narrow bridge required significant structural enhancements to accommodate modern transportation needs. Work on the bridge also had to comply with the National Historic Preservation Act to maintain its historic features.
To expedite the project, our team implemented a design-build delivery method, allowing construction of the detour bridge to continue while design work was ongoing. While rehabilitating and widening this 350-foot historic truss bridge, it was vital to preserve its historic features and keep its original superstructure intact. The increased width allows motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists to cross the bridge safely, while the new lightweight deck enables the historic trusses to support heavier loads.
Despite an earthquake, two 100-year-flood events, and a tropical storm during construction, the project remained on schedule and within budget. This first-of-its-kind project improves functionality and safety while conserving a style of bridge that has nearly vanished in New England.
Project summary
Rehabilitation of this 350-foot truss bridge preserves its historic features.
The bridge is one of only three Pennsylvania trusses in Vermont.
The bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
Talk to an expert
Jeffrey Najdowski, PE, SE*
Project Team Leader,
Principal Engineer
Jeff has decades of bridge design experience, leading numerous projects from proposal to construction. As a project and quality control engineer, he specializes in bridge and culvert design, overseeing the entire process. Jeff values client satisfaction and collaborates with local stakeholders for tailored, high-quality, and cost-effective solutions. His role often involves critical decision-making during construction to address field conditions and contractor preferences.