In 1875, the Lawrence and Topeka Railroad would become a part of the Kansas City, Topeka and Western Railroad. At the same time, the KCT&W would construct approximately two miles of track between the Missouri/Kansas State Line and the Kansas City Union Station.
In addition, the Kansas Midland Railroad completed the connection between Lawrence and the state line in 1875, prior to merging with the KCT&W.
By 1899, the route would become a part of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway. The ATSF connected several midwestern states to the southwestern United States.
This route served as a secondary mainline for the ATSF, bypassing the congested mainline which ran south of this line.
By 1996, the ATSF was struggling considerably. As a result, it merged with Burlington Northern to form BNSF Railway, the current operator of this line.
Currently, it is known as the Topeka Subdivision, which connects Emporia to Kansas City.
06/26/21
Located on the east side of Topeka near the BNSF yard, this is the southern of two bridges over Golden Avenue.
Built in 1907, the bridge consists of a single ballast deck through girder span, set onto concrete substructures. In addition, a short trestle approach has been built on the west end of the bridge.
This style of bridge was common for crossing roadways, as it allowed sufficient clearance underneath. This track appears to be the main line around the yard to the west.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in good condition, with no significant deteriorations or alterations noted.
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.