After more than 40 years of service the iron bridge crossing the Sandy River in Strong had to be replaced. Though it appeared to be standing firm, years of winter deck treatment with sand and sodium chloride (road salt) corroded the lower structural steel beyond repair.

Construction of a triple-span bridge of concrete and steel girders was commenced. This bridge would be supported on two concrete piers set in the riverbed and abutments set well into the riverbanks on driven steel pilings.