1924
Modjeski and Masters Retained to Study Improvements to Market Street Bridge
The new partnership of Ralph Modjeski and Frank Masters was retained by the Harrisburg Bridge Company to study capacity and safety improvements to the existing 2 lane bridge. Of the three proposed structure types, the stone-faced concrete arch option was selected due to its extensive lifespan, cost-effective maintenance, and stately appearance. The partnership also enlisted the assistance of Paul Philippe Cret, a renowned architect and partner on many bridge designs, to help complete aesthetic elements of the design.
1926
Construction Begins on the Widening Project
Construction on the bridge began in 1926 with the goal of widening the overall structure to four travel lanes (with two sidewalks) while disrupting traffic as little as possible. The process involved multiple intricate construction sequences on both the west and east channel piers and bridge spans. After lengthening and strengthening piers on both channels, half-width of the new east channel arch spans were constructed and traffic was shifted to these spans. Next, the original spans from the east channel were floated and reinstalled alongside the existing spans on the west channel. Finally, the remaining width of the new east channel arch spans were constructed. The overall process would take two years to complete.
1928
Widened Market Street Bridge Opens to Traffic
On April 25th, 1928, the newly completed Market Street Bridge was opened to traffic.
2020
Modjeski and Masters Selected as Part of Market Street Bridge Rehabilitation Project
As part of a project team, M&M is the lead structural engineer for the ongoing rehabilitation of the arch bridge components and replacement of the existing deck. M&M also recently completed a load rating analyses using LUSAS 3D finite element software, a deck type study, an expansion joint elimination study, and a remaining service life evaluation. The purpose of this $63.8 (est.) project is to maintain safe and efficient multimodal connectivity across the Susquehanna River between Harrisburg and the West Shore communities, as well as access to City Island and its amenities.