The Castle Group’s Role in Mid-Hudson Bridge History
Just over 90 years ago, the Mid-Hudson Bridge was finally completed after an unprecedented construction accident.
Images eerily similar to those of the Titanic depict the unforeseen dangers of building in water. Yet, even in 1929, the resolution couldn’t have happened without a team of divers.
On July 1st, 1927 the concrete-filled steel caisson foundation landed 57 feet deep on the bottom of the Hudson River. Although there was an inexplicable shift, leveling construction continued. However, after debris removal during the night shift on July 25th and 26th, everything came to a halt.
Within 60 seconds at 4:30 am on the 27th, the caisson suddenly tilted 42 ½ degrees.
While month-long measures were taken to prevent further movement and tilting, skilled divers were essential for attaching lines and cables to restore alignment. By May 1928, it was finally realigned to its proper vertical position.
Today, the use of certified divers is still utilized for ensuring the safety and maintenance of bridges and piers. The New York Bridge Authority requires underwater inspections every five years as ongoing upkeep and service of its bridges and piers.
The Castle Group team of expert divers has been part of these continual checks several times since 2002.
The Castle Group’s Role in Mid-Hudson Bridge History – We’re proud that our construction division- Hydro Marine Construction- has been entrusted with necessary repairs and also plays a significant role in the upkeep of our local history.
In order to ensure these historic bridges remain an essential part of our landscape, The Castle Group is looking ahead to the future.
Recently, one of our certified construction diver experts, Katherine Kelly, participated in a STEM field workshop for master teachers and she was a keynote speaker for the NYS Master Teacher Program’s Girls Rock STEM event inspiring the next generation of divers.
Whether your projects are historic structures or new construction, The Castle Group finds solutions to your challenges.
Let us put our experience and innovation to work for you. Contact W.J. Castle & Associates to discuss your next project at 800.644.4713 or contact us here.