The Riviere Cochon Gras Bridge demonstrates the resilience and longevity of galvanized structures. Originally part of the Fore River Bridge, built by Acrow Corporation, it served for 15 years, connecting North Weymouth and Quincy Point, Massachusetts, while withstanding harsh New England winters and heavy traffic. After it was decommissioned, a 25 metre section of the bridge was transferred to Perches, Haiti, by the Cashman Family Foundation in collaboration with Tighe & Bond and Engineers Without Borders.
The river, Riviere Cochon Gras, had been a dangerous obstacle for local residents, frequently flooding and preventing safe passage to medical care and essential services. Tragically, many people had drowned while attempting to cross it. The repurposed bridge now provides a crucial, life-saving link for the community, enabling safe travel year-round.
One of the project’s greatest benefits is the low life-cycle cost. Hot-dip galvanizing preserved the bridge section in excellent condition, with no signs of corrosion or need for repair, eliminating future maintenance expenses. Additionally, reusing the steel bridge avoids the environmental costs of manufacturing new materials, showcasing the sustainability of galvanized steel structures while offering a transformative solution for the people of Perches.
