Located in Columbus Junction, this large deck girder bridge crosses the Iowa River.
Built in approximately 1912 to replace an older truss bridge, the structure features 21 spans of deck plate girder, set onto concrete and stone piers.
In the early 1890s, a large Quadrangular Through Truss was erected, set onto stone piers. However, this bridge would begin to deteriorate by 1903, and replacement was requested not long after.
Historic photo of the previous bridge, courtesy of Photolibrarian on Flickr
During 1903, a substantial amount trestling on the west end was replaced with new deck girders. By 1910, the trusses would be replaced and possibly reused elsewhere.
During the replacement, the trusses were carefully braced and new girders installed through the trusses, while keeping traffic moving.
While a majority of the bridge was built in 1910, there are random spans that have been replaced over time. Most notably, spans #3 and #9 look the most modern, but span #19 among others have also been replaced. The easternmost span also has a 1912 plaque, indicating it may have been moved here or installed later.
Span #19 in particular has a missing plaque typical of a shape used by Paxton-Vierling Steel Works in the 1970s. Further evidence of the newer age includes the welded connections.
It is unknown when these spans were added, but it was likely not all at once.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in fair condition. Significant deterioration can be found on the substructures.
Historic photo of the bridge, courtesy of Photolibrarian on Flickr
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.
| Upstream | Columbus Junction Rail Bridge (North) |
| Downstream | Confluence with Mississippi River |