Along US 119 in Pike County, KY, the roadway winds its way from one mountainside to another more than 200 feet above the creek below. Incorporating a bridge into US 119’s curving path, high above Raccoon Creek, presented challenges during its design and its construction. Limited workspace below the proposed bridge presented the initial challenge. Because the route crossed Raccoon Creek Road, Raccoon Creek, several access roads for a coal mine, twin railroad tracks, and rail spur, possible pier locations were few. To cross the 1275 foot-long expanse, twin four-span bridges were found to be the best solution.

Preliminary design with steel I-girders showed that excessive rotation of the bridge deck would occur both during construction and in service. To remedy this deficiency, much more rigid steel box girders were employed, Kentucky’s first use of this bridge type. A twin steel box girder cross section reduced twisting and provided increased stability during erection of the girders.