Presa Street Bridge gets new lease on life

The newly renovated Presa Street Bridge has reopened following a thorough restoration process.

The downtown, historic bridge underwent rust removal and a thorough cleaning process. Repairs to the bridge included the abatement of existing lead-containing base coatings, spot treatments of corroded areas as well as other minor repairs. The bridge was also repainted black in accordance with State Historic Preservation Office standards.

"The work to the Presa Street Bridge was necessary in order to preserve the authenticity of this historic structure," said Paula X. Stallcup, director of Downtown Operations. "Today more than 3,000 vehicles travel the Presa St. Bridge daily."

The Presa St. Bridge, which was built in 1890, remains at its original site on South Presa between Nueva and Market streets. The bridge was manufactured by the Berlin Iron Bridge Company of East Berlin, Connecticut. The company's ability to incorporate Victorian design schemes into their work is what attracted the City to have them fabricate the Presa Street Bridge. Today It is one of three Berlin bridges that remain on the San Antonio River Walk.

San Antonio is unique in that it is home to four intact Berlin Iron bridges. The Augusta and Crockett street bridges remain downtown. The fourth bridge, originally located on St. Mary's St., is now at home in Brackenridge Park.

Funds for this project were provided from 2007 Downtown Infrastructure bonds and Certificates of Obligation.