Pennsylvania County Selects Hot-Dip Galvanized Steel for Urgent Bridge Project

The following case study and accompanying images were provided by SSSBA member V&S Galvanizing.

The recently completed Tait Road Bridge in Coolspring Township, Mercer County, Pennsylvania, is a model of modern short span bridge design and community-centered infrastructure.

The original bridge, constructed in 1966, reached the end of its service life and required replacement. Serving approximately 300 vehicles daily—with traffic expected to increase to 400 due to its proximity to the Mercer County Courthouse—the bridge plays a vital role in the region’s transportation network.

Speed and Durability Drive Bridge Design Decision

Faced with an urgent timeline and safety concerns, county officials required a solution that could be delivered quickly while offering long-term performance. After evaluating several bridge options, Mercer County made a strategic decision to specify a hot-dip galvanized short span steel bridge—a decision driven by two key factors: the immediate availability of steel components and the demanding timeline for replacement.

Mercer County, Pennsylvania, specified a hot-dip galvanized steel bridge for its exceptional corrosion protection and proven durability in aggressive environments.

Galvanizing Delivers Long-Term Protection Over Otter Creek

The bridge’s location over Otter Creek—a corrosive environment due to constant moisture exposure—also influenced the choice. Hot-dip galvanizing was selected for its exceptional corrosion protection and proven durability in aggressive environments, providing the county with a cost-effective, low-maintenance and durable solution. The galvanized coating ensures that the structure will resist corrosion for decades, significantly reducing life-cycle costs and maintenance needs.

SSSBA Members Lead Fabrication and Coating

In February 2023, Horizon Construction Group was awarded the contract, and Quality Bridge & Fab, Inc., a member of the Short Span Steel Bridge Alliance (SSSBA), fabricated the bridge in West Middlesex, Pennsylvania.

The steel components—62 tons in total—included eight double-dip galvanized W36x150 girders and 65 single-dip galvanized C15x33.9 cross members. Galvanized steel grid decking was also used, providing a lightweight, high-performance surface with excellent drainage and slip resistance.

V&S Galvanizing, another SSSBA member, galvanized the steel elements for the project, ensuring a uniform, high-quality protective coating that will extend the service life of the bridge.

The bridge features a galvanized steel grid deck, offering a lightweight, durable surface with superior drainage and enhanced slip resistance—ideal for long-term performance in challenging conditions.

A Durable, Efficient Solution for the Community

Brad Elder, Director of the Mercer County Bridge Department, emphasized the importance of timing and material reliability:

“The critical factor is when we can get materials. The bridge is in dire need for replacement, and we need material that will be cost-effective and be able to replace the bridge in a timely manner.”

Completed in January 2024, the 85-foot short span bridge now serves the community with improved safety and reliability, while also demonstrating how galvanized steel bridges can meet tight construction schedules without compromising long-term performance.

For more information, contact:

Alek Novatnak
Northeast Sales & Marketing Manager
V&S Galvanizing
153 Micro Drive
Jonestown, PA 17038
717-639-4896
alekn@hotdipgalv.com

Tony Ghioldi
Vice President, Sales
Quality Bridge & Fab, Inc.
3608F Sharon Road
West Middlesex, Pennsylvania 16159
United States
724.528.1800
tonyghioldi@qualitybridgeandfab.com