Cabin Creek Covered Bridge to be Stabilized

WGN KY-68-03

 

TOLLESBORO, KY, November 22, 2008 - A steel truss is to be used to stabilize troubled Cabin Creek Covered Bridge while environmental studies and construction plans are completed and funds are found.

The stabilization work should be completed by February.

A inspection following damage by spring storms discovered need for serious repairs. Stabilization was found to be essential else the span would be lost to the next storm.

Funds have been dedicated to the bridge project but the question is how much more will be needed. About $500,000 in National Historic Covered Bridge Preservation Program grant money has been set aside.

While the funds on hand are adequate for the stabilization work, as much as $1 million to $1.5 million are typical costs for preservation. The balance will likely be raised through grants or other sources, authorities said.

Also known as the Mackey/Huges/Jones Farm Bridge, the 114-foot Cabin Creek Bridge was built in 1867 to cross Cabin Creek using a multiple king post truss with arch. In addition to the usual MKing & arch truss, each panel has a steel rod crossing the wood brace similar to the Child Truss.

The bridge was closed to vehicles in 1983, and to pedestrian traffic in July, 2008.