Late in 2019, State Parks requested funds to rebuild the road bridge inside Butano State Park. The 50 ft long vehicle bridge on the Butano entrance road is the only access to the campground and water treatment plant. It had extensive rot on perpendicular decking boards, wheel runner boards, and handrail posts.
In addition to rebuilding the bridge, the plan included raising the superstructure to increase channel flow, to improve drainage and to address a hard transition on the down-hill approach.
The Butano campground is closed December through March, so this winter was an ideal time to work on the bridge.
Damage to decking is coned off, and road marking from USA to identify underground utilities. Photo: CSPA Archives
Work included removing all decking, handrails and posts, then lifting the rail car superstructure to attach 10″ tall, steel supports to concrete abutments. Finally, the rail car was lowered and the new supports were welded to the superstructure. Afterward, new decking, wheel runners and curbs, posts and handrails were installed to complete the job.
No sooner had the decking been removed and the superstructure elevated, a statewide shelter in place order in response to the COVID-19 pandemic threatened delays. However, work continued as this infrastructure upgrade was considered an essential project.
Reduced to its superstructure, the bridge was elevated to ease the transition and improve water flow beneath. 
The superstructure is elevated and steel components are welded into place. 
Progress continues even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
After completion, the transition for the downhill approach has been eased to reduce the impact on the bridge.
The downhill approach to the bridge after completion.
With attention to detail, the sculpted hand-rails make this both a beautiful as well as functional bridge. 
The completed bridge.
