Memorial Bridge Approach

Memorial Bridge Approach. . Lincoln Memorial Bridge opened to traffic in 1932 adjacent to the George Rogers Clark Memorial, which was still under construction. The design of the bridge approach was to compliment and to be a part of the memorial's landscape. , The stonework of the approach is a facing of granite four to six inches thick attached to a concrete substructure by wrought iron anchors and pins. The beautiful stone surface has been marred by brown rust stains from 90 years of deteriorating iron anchors. Water infiltrating the structure along with freeze thaw cycles have moved some of the stones and endangers the integrity of the structure. During the winter of 2022 one of the stones, weighing approximately 700 pounds, fell from its place about 12 feet above the ground. , The Bridge Approach is a historic landmark and all work shall be performed in accordance with Secretary of Interior Standards for Treatment of Historic Properties. The Bridge Approach, Clark Memorial, and the historic landscape are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. , Did you know? , When built, the waterproofing layer consisted of asphalt-soaked muslin cloth and while wrought iron anchors held the stones in place. Today's high quality waterproofing materials, sealants and noncorrosive metals means that the issues that have plagued the structure for more than 90 years will be eliminated.