M-88–Intermediate River Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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M-88–Intermediate River Bridge
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 Location in Michigan
Location in the United States
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| Location |  M-88 over Intermediate River, Bellaire, Michigan |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1930 |
| Built by | L. W. Lamb |
| Architect | Michigan State Highway Department |
| Architectural style | steel Stringer |
| MPS | Highway Bridges of Michigan MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 99001574 |
| Added to NRHP | December 17, 1999 |
The M-88–Intermediate River Bridge is a special bridge in Bellaire, Michigan. It carries M-88, a state highway, over the Intermediate River. This bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1999. This means it is an important historical site worth protecting. The bridge is also a great example of projects built during the Great Depression to help people find work.
History of the M-88–Intermediate River Bridge
In 1893, an older bridge made of steel was built here. It helped people travel north and south through Bellaire. By 1931, many more tourists were visiting northern Michigan. This meant the old bridge was too small and needed to be replaced.
The Michigan State Highway Department drew up plans for a new bridge. In late 1931, they hired a company from Jackson, Michigan led by L. W. Lamb. This company won the contract to build the new concrete bridge for $21,419. Another company, Fort Pitt Bridge Works from Massillon, Ohio, made the steel parts.
Building the bridge started in late 1931. Many people who worked on the bridge were hired through the County Relief Committee. This committee helped people find jobs during the Great Depression. The new bridge was finished and opened for cars in June 1932. Over time, some of the original railings on the bridge have been replaced with new ones that look just like the old ones.
What the Bridge Looks Like
The M-88–Intermediate River Bridge is about 60 feet long. It is also about 55 feet wide. The part where cars drive is 40 feet wide. There are also sidewalks on both sides for people to walk on.
The bridge has concrete railings with square posts. These railings are called balustrades. There is also a special railing on one side. This railing helps keep people safe from a steep drop. A metal plate on the bridge shows that it was built in 1931.
