Lincoln Road–Pine River Bridge

The Lincoln Road-Pine River Bridge is a concrete structure spanning the Pine River with two arched girders supporting the roadway through a series of floor beams. The design features recessed panels and five curved cutouts along each side, creating a distinctive appearance.

The bridge was commissioned by the Michigan State Highway Department in 1921 and completed the following year. It represented an early application of concrete curved-chord design for river crossings in the state.

The structure represents early 20th-century engineering innovations in Michigan, earning its place on the National Register of Historic Places in December 1999.

The crossing is best accessed on foot and offers views of the river from the structure itself. Visitors should be prepared for uneven surfaces given the age of the bridge.

The structure was built on noticeably angled abutments, an unusual design choice that allowed it to function for many decades until deterioration required replacement. This durability despite the skewed foundation demonstrates the strength of early concrete engineering.

Location: Gratiot County

Inception: 1922

Architects: Michigan Department of Transportation

GPS coordinates: 43.37917,-84.83306

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:41