US 77 Across Skeleton Creek

 

 

Here we see the 200 foot long span that carries US 77 across Skeleton Creek right before it dumps into the mighty Cimarron. The bridge was constructed in 1926  and is of standard OSHC design. And, as usual, the curved corner braces that were so commonly used in the portals of bridges of this time were remover to gain clearance. Other than new railing, this span is identical to the 5 spans in the old OK 18 bridge across the Arkansas River.

April 2004 update:
This bridge has been cleaned and repainted. The structure now stands rust free with a fresh, shiny coat of grey paint. The south portal, which was slightly bent, has also been straightened out.