Antique Worley Bridge closed to Traffic - Jeanne Williams.Temple Daily Telegram:

Antique Worley Bridge now closed to traffic

It was famous for the creaking, popping and groaning noises emitted from its metal deck

by Jeanne Williams - Temple Daily Telegram

May 8, 2011

SAN GABRIEL - The only antique iron truss bridge in Milam County that carried vehicle

traffic was closed following a recommendation from the Texas Department of

Transportation.

The six-month inspection for the Worley Bridge was fast approaching, and TxDOT did the

inspection early for safety concerns because of the Nocturnal Fest at Apache Pass.

TxDOT found that the structural capacity of the bridge was deteriorating and needed to

be closed, the agency reported in a press release.

TxDOT informed Milam County of its findings and both entities agreed the bridge should

be closed.

The agency is investigating all possibilities for preserving the closed iron bridge

including converting it into a pedestrian bridge and building a new bridge for vehicles

next to it. A historical bridge team and local stakeholders will be involved with the

decision of what to do with the bridge, TxDOT officials reported. Some options for the

bridge are for it to stay in place as a monument, move it as a monument to a different

location, or rehab the bridge for vehicular traffic. The antique Sugar Loaf Bridge was

historically restored on site near Gause, and is open to pedestrian traffic, as is the

Brushy Creek Bridge at Cameron’s Wilson-Ledbetter Park.

The closed Worley Bridge was built in 1911 and measures 272 feet long, plus 138 feet of

main span and metal decking. At 12 feet wide, the bridge could only accommodate one

vehicle at a time.

It was famous for the creaking, popping and groaning noises emitted with a vehicle

rumbled and rattled over its metal deck.

County and TxDOT staff are working on the plans to reopen a crossing of the San Gabriel

River for this area. Construction is anticipated to begin in 3 to 5 years, TxDOT

reported.

The Worley Bridge was featured in a recent Temple Daily Telegram weekly Backroads

column, which showcases Central Texas towns, businesses, structures, and historical

events.

jwilliams@tdtnews.com

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Temple Daily Telegram.
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Jeanne Williams and the Temple Daily Telegram