More than a bridge: Historic Rehabilitation of Arlington Memorial Bridge

A crane lifts historic fascia (face steel) for reinstallation after its rehabilitation.

NPS /Jarob Ortiz

Most construction work is now complete at Arlington Memorial Bridge! Since spring 2018, the project team worked to install new, pre-cast concrete panels on the bridge deck. That work along with the installation of new sidewalks and driving surface is finished. The new road deck is complemented by more than 4500 pieces historic granite balustrade and rehabilitated metal panels in the middle of the bridge.

 

Workers prepare the bridge deck for new, pre-cast concrete panels in June 2019.

NPS / Jonathan Shafer

The structure that supported the balustrade needed to be replaced, and this was the first time all of the stone has been removed since the bridge opened in 1932. Workers are reinstalling the granite balustrade in the exact same locations where they have been for almost 90 years. This is important because it will helps maintain the bridge's historic fabric and function.

 

Arlington Memorial Bridge on the day it reopened, December 4, 2020.

NPS / Liz Macro

Learn more about the bridge’s role as a memorial and its importance as a link the National Capital Region’s transportation network online at go.nps.gov/MemorialBridge.