Fall Creek Suspension Bridge
NBI Information
Location
State: New York
County: Tompkins County
Feature Carried: Cascadilla Trail
Feature Crossed: Fall Creek
Latitude, Longitude: 42.4519, -76.4861
Structure Open, Posted, or Closed to Traffic: Open to Pedestrians
History
Year Built: 1961
Picture Date: April 7, 2024
Geometry
Lanes on Structure: 1
Lanes under Structure: 0
Number of Main Spans: 1
Main Structure Type: Suspension
Main Structure Material: Metal
Condition
Bridge is not on the National Bridge Inventory
Bridge Information
The Fall Creek Suspension bridge is a pedestrian bridge over Fall Creek which is located on the Cornell University campus. This bridge was built in 1961, although the first gorge crossing at this location was a suspension bridge that was built in 1913. The original bridge was built when the suburb of Cornell Heights was originally constructed. By the mid-20th century, the bridge was starting to deteriorate. It was replaced in 1960, with the official dedication being done on January 7, 1961.
The bridge is approximately 270 feet long and is 140 feet above the river. It gives users a great view of the waterfalls and gorges below and is a common route for students and locals. In 2013, a cable net barrier system was added to the bridge, most likely to prevent debris and people from falling (or jumping) into the gorge below. This system consists of a stainless-steel cable net which is attached to the main cable and wraps under and around the deck and truss.
References
Ithaca Journal: https://www.ithacajournal.com/story/news/local/2019/12/28/then-and-now-if-ithaca-gorges-its-also-bridges/2702740001/
Only in Your State: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/new-york/bridge-walk-ny/
SGH: https://www.sgh.com/project/cornell-university-pedestrian-suspension-bridge/
