The bridge is known for its unique top chord, which is created through a sectional, eight-sided cast iron columns bolted at each point.

In historic carpentry the top chords are often called rafters, and the bottom chord is an often a tie beam.

They are welded items comprising top and bottom chords interconnected by vertical and diagonal bracing.

In 1927, it was lowered from its piers, the top chords partially disassembled.

After supporting the bridge under the floor beams, they disassembled the top chord and stabilized each panel point on the trusses.

The top chord has been disassembled to allow clearance of some bridges it must pass under.

The Bollman truss suspends the deck from a network of tension members, while the top chord resists compressive forces.

Its pin-connected superstructure uses wrought iron Phoenix columns in its top chord and compression members.

Bowstring truss bridges were a common truss design seen during this time, with their arched top chords.

Each truss always includes a top and bottom chord, the major beams which resist the bending induced by stresses on the bridge.