Building Bridges-Fifth Street And Keowee Street Bridges

Building Bridges-Fifth Street And Keowee Street Bridges. . The Webster Street, Fifth Street, and Keowee Street Bridges were the first to be constructed after the Great Flood. They were also the first to be constructed under the new Council-City Manager form of government, which Dayton adopted in 1913. , The fundamental process of designing and constructing bridges in the 21st century is similar to the early 20th century in that new replacement bridges need to withstand the use of sustained and heavy use by many vehicles. They also had to have the strength and durability to withstand forces of high water and flooding by employing the most modern design and construction methods. The new bridges thus reflected distinct design characteristics that are unique to their location in Dayton. , Engineers from Dayton's Department of Engineering and the consulting firm of Harrington, Howard and Ash designed the three bridges. Over 40 firms bid for the construction contracts, with the Pacific Engineering Company winning them. The total cost of the construction for the three bridges was under $400,000. , The expertise and judgement of Miami Conservancy District was called upon throughout the process to ensure that the design was effective, the construction sound, and that the project was completed according to plans. , Contract drawing detail, Keowee Street Bridge, 1916 (Courtesy, Dayton Metro Library) , Construction photograph, Fifth Street Bridge, 1918 (Courtesy, Dayton Metro Library)