concrete bridges
Before the 20th century, the structural materials of bridge construction were wood, iron and steel. To the benefits of reinforced concrete-its durability and ease of fabrication-was added its ability to give the appearance of decorative stone at little cost. Although rarely used until the 1920’s, reinforced concrete became a favored material for St. Louis vehicular bridges. The Bellerive Bridge into Bellerive Park is built of reinforced concrete. Heavy concrete piers, with recessed panels and stylized capitals, support the gently curving arch over South Broadway. A decorative pattern of arches forms the handrail. (St. Louis, 1995)