These materials, including barbed wire, subsequently caught fire and created an inferno covering 30 acres (120,000 m2).

On May 31, 1889, its seven arches blocked tons of debris, carried by the Johnstown Flood, including miles of barbed wire twisted through it from the destruction of a plant.

But an enormous fire broke out in the debris at the bridge, killing scores of people trapped within it, and burning for three days.

[2] The bridge is highly visible from Route 56, downtown, the Johnstown Area Heritage Association's (JAHA) newly established Festival Park, and the restaurant and visitors center above the city at the Inclined Plane.

Restoring the South facade of that structure and casting LED lighting on it will certainly showcase the triumph of the human spirit in a spectacular style for all to see, enjoy and be proud of their heritage.