News Release

O&W Bridge Inspection Scheduled for October 5, 2020

O&W Bridge

NPS

News Release Date: October 1, 2020

Contact: Christopher Derman, 423-569-9778

Tennessee Department of Transportation will be inspecting the historic O&W Bridge on October 5, 2020 (weather permitting). The inspection will require the use of a boom lift to view the upper parts of the truss. The bridge will be closed to vehicles 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM (ET), but accessible by foot traffic if/when it is safe to do so.

Constructed in 1915, O&W Bridge was essential in aiding the Oneida & Western Railroad in the transport of coal and timber across the gorge to nearby communities, such as Jamestown and Oneida, until resources were exhausted, decades later.

Today, O&W Bridge is a popular National Park Service destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, horseback riding, birdwatching, and sightseeing, just to name a few.