PENNSYLVNIA - The Keystone State, is defined by its dramatic topography of rolling mountains, deep valleys, and mighty rivers. To traverse this landscape, an impressive network of bridges was built, some of which are remarkable feats of engineering. While many bridges are known for their length or historic design, one stands out for its sheer height above the water below: the Emlenton Bridge, which holds the title of the highest bridge in Pennsylvania.
The Champion of Height: The Emlenton Bridge
- Location: The Emlenton Bridge carries Interstate 80 across the scenic Allegheny River gorge, connecting Clarion and Venango counties in western Pennsylvania.
- Height: The bridge deck stands approximately 270 feet (82 meters) above the river, making it the highest road bridge in the state. Its official name is the Governor Robert D. Fleming Bridge.
- Construction: Opened in 1968, this steel arch bridge is a critical component of Interstate 80, a major east-west artery for commerce and travel across Pennsylvania.
A Breathtaking Drive
Driving across the Emlenton Bridge is a memorable experience. For the brief time it takes to cross, travelers are treated to stunning, panoramic views of the Allegheny River and the surrounding forested valley. The height provides a dramatic perspective on the landscape that was carved out over millennia.
A Historic Contender: The Kinzua Bridge
No discussion of high bridges in Pennsylvania is complete without mentioning the legendary Kinzua Bridge.
- Original Status: Located in McKean County, the original Kinzua Viaduct, when completed in 1882, was the tallest railroad bridge in the world, standing at 301 feet high. It was a true marvel of 19th-century engineering.
- Its Fate: The historic bridge was partially destroyed by a tornado in 2003.
- Today, the remaining structure has been ingeniously repurposed as the Kinzua Bridge State Park's Skywalk. This pedestrian walkway extends out over the gorge, allowing visitors to experience the dizzying height and see the wreckage of the collapsed towers below.
While the historic Kinzua Bridge once held the title of the tallest bridge structure of any kind in the state, the Emlenton Bridge on Interstate 80 currently stands as the highest active road bridge in Pennsylvania. Its impressive 270-foot clearance over the Allegheny River makes it not only a vital piece of transportation infrastructure but also a point of interest offering spectacular views for the millions of travelers who cross it each year, showcasing the grand scale of the Keystone State's natural landscape.
Sources:
- Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)
- U.S. Federal Highway Administration - National Bridge Inventory
- Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) - for Kinzua Bridge State Park
- Historical societies of Clarion and Venango Counties
- Bridge and engineering publications
