Jerome Street Bridge

Jerome Street Bridge is a steel arch bridge spanning the Youghiogheny River in McKeesport, built with widely spaced ribs at its apex to distribute weight effectively. The structure maintains its original design and remains a functional crossing that showcases early 20th century engineering techniques.

Engineer George S. Richardson designed this bridge in 1937 as part of a Depression-era public works program aimed at improving regional automobile access. The project was one of many built during that period to create jobs and strengthen local infrastructure.

The structure represents a significant example of American engineering development, earning recognition on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

A complete renovation in 2022 replaced the deck, repaired concrete, and renewed bearings to ensure safe passage for all users. The crossing remains open and accessible for both pedestrians and vehicles at any time.

The bridge was originally named Lysle Boulevard Bridge, but regulations against publicly funding memorials to living officials prompted its renaming to Jerome Street Bridge. This naming change reflects a policy debate that occurred during its completion.