Main Street Bridge

The Main Street Bridge in Vestal, NY is a single-span Polygonal Warren pony truss that was built in 1929. In the first third of the 20th century, New York developed standard details for metal truss bridges and built them with moderate frequency. New York used Warren and Polygonal Warren truss configurations as the standard (Pennsylvania had a similar program using Pratt and Parker truss configurations). Today, most of these structures are painted the same green color, which enhances the standard appearance of the design. This bridge was previously painted green to match, but at some point, it was painted brown.

This standard design used large members and had a relatively wide deck width for the time. A fair number of these bridges remain, as they are typically strong bridges that are capable of serving modern traffic needs safely and efficiently. In addition, these bridges are highly attractive structures, and they make the crossing something to notice and enjoy.

In August of 2025, the Town of Vestal put out a solicitation for bids to replace this bridge. This is part of a much larger capital improvement project which focuses on expanding the nearby rail trail. The new structure will be wider and longer to accommodate more pedestrian friendly intersections at both ends. Construction is predicted to begin in 2026.