Back to Photo Album

Blaine Hill “S” Bridge Rededicated

September 18, 2005

The Blaine Hill “S” Bridge in Pease Township, Belmont County was closed to traffic in 1994 and was saved from demolition in 1999 when the Blaine Bridge Community Preservation Project was formed. In 2000, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) authorized the reconstruction of the collapsing western end of the bridge. But because other parts of the bridge were also deteriorating, a total reconstruction was undertaken.

Because of its historical and architectural significance, the Blaine Hill “S” Bridge was designated as Ohio’s Bicentennial Bridge on March 15, 2001. An Ohio Historical Marker was dedicated at the site in July 2003. Thanks to the commitment of ODOT and the Blaine Bridge Community Preservation Project, this oldest, longest and last 3-arch “S” bridge was rededicated on September 18, 2005 after an extensive rehabilitation. ONRA’s own Sue Douglas and Greg Zelenitz, Chief Officers of the project, were among the attendees as the ribbon was cut to open the bridge to pedestrians.