Laying claim to the longest single span covered bridge of America, the Bridgeport Bridge was recently reopened after a long period of refurbishment. While the old Blenheim Bridge in southeastern New York was always in contention for the longest single-span covered bridge, it had washed away in 2011. Even thought the Blenheim has since been rebuilt, the Bridgeport Bridge still holds the record measuring 208 feet long. The construction of this historic California landmark is quite a remarkable achievement. Crossing the chilly waters of the South Fork of the Yuba river, the (Nyes Crossing) bridge was built in 1862. Serving the nearby Silverland Gold Mines of Virginia City, the bridge was an important link of a Virginia Turnpike Company toll road.
   One of only ten California covered bridges, the bridge is the centerpiece for the South Yuba River State Park. Untilizing a combination of a Burr and Howe trusses, the Bridgeport Bridge main support timbers are unique. Two 5"x 14" Douglas fir timbers sandwiched the Howe truss, while an auxiliary Burr truss strengthened the assembly on the outside. It’s the Burr truss arch that is visible from the bridge exterior. Multiple trusses were used throughout the country making it possible for spans to cover 200 feet. Although the pine shakes give the Yuba River Bridge its unique appearance, the siding is primarily used to protect these massive timbers. Because most of the old-growth forest have been cut, these precious long span trusses are unable to be duplicated today.
   After a structural survey in September 2011 revealed significant structural damage, the Bridgeport Bridge was closed. To aid the bridge work and rehabilitation of existing abutments, the bridge was raised on temporary supports. Work included the rebuilding of the main top chord, plus the replacement of wooden supports and steel tension rods. To finish it off, the entire bridge was re-clad in thousands of shingles. The 6.9 million dollar rehabilitation project was finally completed in October 2021. All who attended were especially grateful to the Save Our Bridge group and the countless number or workers.

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