1895
Ralph Modjeski Selected to Design New Bridge
This was the first major assignment for Ralph Modjeski's newly formed engineering practice. Significant engineering challenges had to be overcome including: maintaining the existing alignment; no interruption to rail traffic or marine traffic; designing for projected increases in rail traffic loads; and designing for future maintenance.
1896
Construction Completed on New Bridge
When completed, the Government Bridge is the only one of its kind in the world. It featured a 360-degree swing span that serves Mississippi River navigation while also carrying railroad, vehicular, and pedestrian traffic. It also had the greatest known load capacity of any bridge in the world.
1957
Modjeski and Masters Performs Major Structural Rehabilitation
Modjeski and Masters returns to the Government Bridge to perform a major structural rehabilitation project. Work included replacement of worn pins; tightening eyebars, and; strengthening roadway stringers for the new bridge deck.
1975
Modjeski and Masters Performs First of Numerous Bridge Inspections
Modjeski and Masters performs in-depth structural, mechanical, and electrical inspections and provides repair recommendations which continue to today.
2019
Modjeski and Masters Performs Numerous Rehabilitation Projects
Modjeski and Masters was called-on to performs numerous rehabilitation projects starting in 2000 including hydraulic conversion / motor drive conversion; end lift linkage rehabilitation; bevel gear replacement; and end lift study and replacement design