Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a unique and historic bridge located in Harbeson, Delaware. This bridge is a vital transportation link for the local community, connecting Delaware and Maryland over the Indian River. The bridge was built in 1928 and has since undergone several renovations to ensure its safety and functionality.

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a popular destination for tourists and history buffs alike. The bridge's unique design and historical significance make it a must-see attraction for visitors to the area. In addition to its historical significance, the bridge also serves an important role in local transportation, providing a vital link between Delaware and Maryland. Whether you're interested in history or just need to cross the Indian River, the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is definitely worth a visit.

Historical Background

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a historic bridge located in Harbeson, Delaware. It spans the Indian River and connects Sussex County, Delaware with Worcester County, Maryland. The bridge was built in 1913 and was originally used for both vehicular and railroad traffic.

During the early 20th century, the bridge played an important role in the transportation of goods and people between Maryland and Delaware. It was a vital link in the transportation network of the region, connecting the two states and facilitating commerce and travel.

In the 1950s, the bridge underwent significant renovations to improve its safety and capacity. The original wooden deck was replaced with a steel deck, and the bridge's mechanical system was upgraded to allow for faster and more efficient operation.

Today, the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge remains an important landmark in the region's history. While it is no longer used for railroad traffic, it continues to serve as a vital link for vehicular traffic between the two states. Its distinctive design and historic significance make it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.

Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a historic bridge located in Harbeson, Delaware. The bridge was built in 1928 and spans across the Indian River. It is a vertical-lift bridge that allows boats to pass underneath.

Architectural Design

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a classic example of early 20th-century bridge design. The bridge features a steel truss structure that is supported by concrete piers. The main span of the bridge is a vertical-lift section that is operated by a counterweight system.

The bridge has a total length of 2,200 feet and a width of 22 feet. The vertical-lift section of the bridge has a clearance of 40 feet when in the closed position and a clearance of 85 feet when in the open position.

The bridge's design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The steel truss structure gives the bridge a sense of strength and durability, while the concrete piers provide a solid foundation for the bridge. The vertical-lift section of the bridge adds an interesting visual element to the structure and allows boats to pass underneath with ease.

Overall, the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a well-designed and historically significant bridge that continues to serve the local community to this day.

Location and Accessibility

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is located in Harbeson, Delaware and spans across the Indian River. The bridge connects Sussex County, Delaware to Worcester County, Maryland.

The bridge is easily accessible by car, as it is located off of Route 5, also known as Harbeson Road. There is ample parking available near the bridge, making it convenient for visitors to park and explore the area.

For those interested in exploring the nearby towns, the bridge is located just a short drive from both Lewes, Delaware and Ocean City, Maryland. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and small-town charm of Lewes, or head to the bustling boardwalk of Ocean City for a day of fun in the sun.

Overall, the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a convenient and accessible destination for visitors looking to explore the surrounding areas.

Significance in Harbeson, Delaware

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a significant landmark in Harbeson, Delaware. The bridge is a critical transportation link that connects Sussex County, Delaware, to Worcester County, Maryland. The bridge spans over the Indian River and is a vital transportation route for both locals and tourists.

The bridge has been a part of the community for over 100 years, and its historical significance cannot be overstated. The bridge was first constructed in 1916 and underwent significant renovations in 1972 and 2013. The renovations helped to ensure the bridge's continued operation and safety for generations to come.

The bridge's unique design and construction are also noteworthy. The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a vertical-lift bridge, which means that the bridge deck can be lifted vertically to allow large boats and ships to pass underneath. The bridge's ability to lift has played a crucial role in the area's economic development, allowing for the transportation of goods and materials via the Indian River.

Today, the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge remains an essential part of the community's transportation infrastructure, connecting Sussex County, Delaware, to Worcester County, Maryland. The bridge's continued operation and maintenance are critical to the region's economic growth and development.

Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a historic bridge located in Harbeson, Delaware. The bridge was built in 1916 and is a vital transportation link between Maryland and Delaware. It spans over the Indian River and is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.

Maintenance and Preservation

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge requires regular maintenance and preservation to ensure its safety and longevity. The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) is responsible for the maintenance and preservation of the bridge.

To maintain the bridge, DelDOT conducts regular inspections and repairs. The inspections include checking the structural integrity of the bridge, the electrical and mechanical systems, and the navigation lights. The inspections are conducted by trained professionals who use specialized equipment to ensure the bridge is safe for use.

In addition to inspections, DelDOT also performs routine maintenance on the bridge. This includes cleaning the bridge, repainting it, and replacing any worn or damaged parts. The maintenance work is done by a team of skilled workers who have experience working on historic bridges.

Preservation is also important for the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge. DelDOT has implemented a preservation plan to ensure the bridge remains in good condition for future generations. The plan includes regular maintenance, monitoring, and repairs to prevent deterioration of the bridge.

Overall, the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a historic landmark that requires regular maintenance and preservation to ensure its safety and longevity. DelDOT is committed to preserving this important bridge for future generations to enjoy.

The Maryland-Delaware Connection

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a vital transportation link between the two states. The bridge spans over the Indian River in Sussex County, Delaware, and connects Harbeson, Delaware, to Selbyville, Delaware. The bridge is located on Route 54 and is also known as the Selbyville Bridge.

The Maryland-Delaware Connection is a crucial link between the two states, facilitating the movement of people and goods across the region. The bridge is a popular route for commuters, tourists, and commercial vehicles. The bridge's location makes it an essential transportation link for the local economy, providing access to businesses, farms, and beaches in the area.

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is unique because it is one of the few remaining swing bridges in operation in the United States. The bridge's design allows it to rotate horizontally to allow boats to pass through the waterway. The bridge's swing span is 139 feet long and weighs 300 tons. The bridge's operation is controlled by the Delaware Department of Transportation.

The Maryland-Delaware Connection is a vital piece of infrastructure that connects two states, providing access to their respective economies and communities. The bridge's unique design and operation make it a significant landmark in the area, attracting visitors and tourists from around the world. The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of its creators, and it will continue to serve the region for years to come.

Impact on Local Economy

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge, located in Harbeson, Delaware, has a significant impact on the local economy. The bridge serves as a vital transportation link between the two states, providing a route for commercial and personal vehicles to cross the Indian River Bay.

One of the most significant impacts of the bridge on the local economy is the increased accessibility it provides to the surrounding area. The bridge connects the towns of Harbeson and Millsboro in Delaware to the town of Selbyville in Maryland. This connection enhances the flow of goods and services between the two states, which is essential for the growth and development of local businesses.

The bridge also plays a crucial role in the tourism industry of the area. The Indian River Bay is a popular destination for boating and fishing enthusiasts, and the bridge provides easy access to these activities. Additionally, the bridge provides a scenic view of the surrounding area, which attracts many visitors who enjoy the picturesque landscape.

The construction and maintenance of the bridge also provide employment opportunities for the local community. The ongoing maintenance of the bridge requires a skilled workforce, which provides jobs for local residents. Additionally, the construction of the bridge provided jobs for many workers during its development.

Overall, the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is an essential component of the local economy, providing increased accessibility, supporting the tourism industry, and creating employment opportunities for the surrounding community.

Tourist Attraction

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a must-visit tourist attraction in Harbeson, Delaware. This historic bridge, also known as the Indian River Inlet Bridge, spans across the Indian River Bay and connects Sussex County, Delaware, and Worcester County, Maryland.

The bridge was built in 1934 and has since become a significant landmark in the area. It was rebuilt in 2012 to withstand stronger winds and hurricanes, making it a sturdy and reliable structure for commuters and tourists alike.

Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Indian River Bay and the surrounding areas from the top of the bridge. The bridge is also a popular spot for fishing, crabbing, and boating. Fishing enthusiasts can catch a variety of fish, including striped bass, flounder, and bluefish. Boaters can dock at the nearby Indian River Marina and enjoy the scenic views of the bay.

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is an engineering marvel and a testament to the ingenuity of its builders. Its unique design allows it to swing open to allow boats to pass through, making it a fascinating sight to behold. Visitors can watch as the bridge swings open and closes, marveling at the precision and skill required to operate it.

In conclusion, the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a must-visit tourist attraction for anyone visiting Harbeson, Delaware. Its stunning views, fishing and boating opportunities, and unique design make it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge, located in Harbeson, Delaware, is a historic bridge that spans the Indian River. The bridge was built in 1924 and has been an important part of the transportation infrastructure in the area for nearly a century.

Future Plans:

The Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is a critical transportation link for the local community and the wider region. As such, there are several plans underway to ensure that the bridge remains safe and functional for years to come.

One of the most significant plans for the future of the bridge is a rehabilitation project that will address the bridge's structural deficiencies. The project will involve repairing and replacing various components of the bridge, including the trusses, the deck, and the swing mechanism. The rehabilitation project is expected to begin in 2024 and will take several years to complete.

Another important plan for the future of the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge is the implementation of a tolling system. The tolling system will help generate revenue to pay for the ongoing maintenance and repair of the bridge. The tolling system is expected to be implemented in 2025 and will be based on a distance-based pricing model.

In addition to these plans, there are ongoing efforts to improve the safety and accessibility of the bridge. This includes regular inspections and maintenance, as well as the installation of new safety features such as guardrails and lighting.

Overall, the future of the Maryland and Delaware Swing Bridge looks bright, with several plans in place to ensure that the bridge remains a vital part of the transportation infrastructure in the area for many years to come.