One of the more unique, yet less recognized structures in the Omaha area is this massive bridge, crossing the Platte River next to US-75 and the Union Pacific. The bridge features several distinct types of construction, which represent different time periods.
From 1924 to 2019, the bridge was in the following configuration, from south to north:
2-16' Concrete Slabs (1924)
2-126' 6-panel pin connected Pratt Through Trusses (1903)
1-126' 6-panel riveted Baltimore Through Truss (1910)
1-94' Through Girder (1924)
11-60' Deck Girders (1924)
2-120' 6-panel, riveted Pratt Through Trusses (1924)
2-16' Concrete Slabs (1924)
The entire bridge rests on concrete substructures, which are supported by deep piles into the river bed. It is believed that the 1903 and 1910 spans were original to this location, and the 1910 span replaced another 1903 span after a flood.
In 1924, the bridge was raised by four feet, also likely due to flooding. Since then, the only major alteration came in March 2019, when the through girder and two deck girders were destroyed by a historic flood. These were quickly replaced by modular concrete spans and new steel stringers.
The variety of spans on this bridge is particularly interesting, especially considering the wide and shallow nature of the Platte River. The three different truss styles all follow similar designs to standard CB&Q trusses. The two pin connected spans use a typical solid portal brace, which appears to have been replaced. Old photos of the bridge show decorative plaques were affixed to these portals, which appear to be King Bridge Company plaques. The author is working to confirm this.
In addition, the Baltimore span and the riveted Pratt spans feature design details similar to other bridges on the CB&Q system.
Unfortunately, the author struggled to get near this bridge. Access from US-75 is fenced and signed as no trespassing, while both the north and the south banks are surrounded by private property. The scarred land from flooding also provides an additional difficulty in accessing the bridge. The north end of the bridge, which consists of two other trusses, is also difficult to access.
The author has ranked the bridge as being moderately significant, due to the large size and mix of designs. However, a higher rating was not given due to the partially unknown history.
The photo above is an overview.
| Upstream | UP Platte River Bridge (La Platte) |
| Downstream | Confluence with Missouri River |