Arching gracefully across the Brandywine Creek in the heart of Wilmington, the newly restored VanBuren Street Bridge conceals a modern structural rehabilitation in a design true to the City's rich architectural heritage. The two-year restoration, completed in August 1998, marks an impressive collaboration of state and local officials, area residents, engineering and construction professionals united in preserving the elegant structure. Working with the Delaware State Historic Preservation Office, City of Wilmington Preservation Planner, New Castle County Department of Parks, and Friends Society of Brandywine Park, the Delaware Department of Transportation devised and the engineers from KCI Technologies, Inc. implemented an innovative approach for incorporating a new, five-span, prestressed concrete bridge inside the existing seven-span arch bridge facade. This scheme allowed engineers to restore the load carrying capacity of the bridge, while retaining the structure's historic character and aesthetic features.

Judges Comments: The panel applauded the decision to save the bridge. They felt this project represented an elegant technical solution to a project that has great historical significance. Using prestressed concrete provided a cost-effective design for a structural challenge that enhances the quality of life for area residents. Click here for another article on the project.

VanBuren Street Bridge over Brandywine River. Brandywine Park.

VanBuren Street Bridge over Brandywine River. Downtown Wilmington.