Roads and Bridges magazine selected the U.S. Route 66 Bridgeport Bridge in Oklahoma for its Top 10 Bridges competition. The bridge, also known as the William H. Murray “Pony” Bridge, placed seventh in the United States. STV led the design of the bridge’s long-anticipated revitalization that preserved its 38 unique pony truss spans which are beloved by Route 66 and bridge enthusiasts alike.
Built in 1933, the bridge played a key role in the Dust Bowl migration out West and was even featured in the film version of The Grapes of Wrath. After years of use coupled with changing traffic patterns, the aging bridge was rated structurally deficient by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT), threatening potential closures to traffic and heavier vehicles.
As lead designer, STV’s team developed the first highway bridge in Oklahoma to use full-depth precast concrete deck panels and Ultra-High Performance Concrete joints. The widened, 4,000-foot-long bridge can now safely carry more vehicles across the South Canadian River. The firm designed the new parking lot and viewing area at the end of the bridge, which makes it easier for tourists to visit this Route 66 destination.
“Bridgeport Bridge is a slice of American history—and we’re honored to have played a role in preserving its iconic features while making it last for generations to come,” said David Neuhauser, PE, vice president and Oklahoma area manager.
STV’s involvement began in the early planning stages, as the team provided reconnaissance data collection, stakeholder coordination, and an alternatives analysis report study that identified the final design.
“ODOT hoped to have the bridge open before the 2026 centennial anniversary of Route 66,” Neuhauser said. “Alongside our project team partners, we were thrilled to see it open to the public in May 2024—two years ahead of schedule. This recognition by Roads and Bridges is a welcome honor of the collaborative and innovative efforts our team put into this project.”
The newly rehabilitated structure enhances safety for motorists and supports the state’s maintenance of over 400 miles of Route 66—the largest number of drivable miles on the historic route.
