N.H. bridge national engineering award finalist

Engineers in the Keene office of Clough Harbour & Associates are finalists in the American Council of Engineering Companies’ 40th annual Engineering Excellence Awards competition for their work on the restoration of the Honeymoon Bridge in Jackson.

The Honeymoon Bridge is one of the few remaining examples of the Paddleford Truss, a unique combination of timber arches and trusses once used for covered bridges all across New Hampshire.

The restoration project allows the bridge to safely carry vehicles weighing up to six tons without compromising its historic integrity. Native timber species selected for truss repairs recreate the artistry of the original builders, while an understructure of laminated wood adds new strength.

The project is among 163 engineering achievements from across the nation that are being recognized by ACEC as preeminent engineering accomplishments for 2006. Criteria include uniqueness and originality, technical, social and economic value, complexity, and success of the projects in meeting goals.

The top 24 engineering efforts, including the “Grand Conceptor Award” for the best overall engineering achievement, will be announced at the Engineering Excellence Awards Gala, to be held May 2 at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Washington, D.C. – NHBR STAFF