CR 26 Emergency Response and Bridge Replacement Project Receives 2026 ABCD WNY Bridge of the Year Award
LaBella is proud to share that the Western New York Chapter of the Association for Bridge Construction and Design (ABCD WNY) has recognized the CR 26 Emergency Response and Bridge Replacement project with a 2026 Bridge of the Year Award in the $2–$10 million category! The Bridge of the Year Award is presented to projects that exemplify innovative design, engineering, and construction techniques.
The CR 26 Bridge over the Genesee River in Belfast, New York, serves as the only river crossing for nearly a dozen miles, providing critical access for local residents, businesses, schools, and emergency services.
Following a sudden and severe structural failure that posed an immediate threat to public safety and regional connectivity, the Allegany County Department of Public Works, in coordination with LaBella, initiated an emergency response that included rapid assessment, temporary stabilization, and ongoing monitoring.
The effort ultimately culminated in the closure, removal, and replacement of the unsafe structure. A permanent replacement bridge was designed and constructed, incorporating solutions to address the underlying causes of the structural failure and ensure long-term safety and resilience.