This massive lift bridge is likely one of the heaviest structures over the upper Mississippi River.
The first bridge here was constructed in 1870-1871, and was a large Post Through Truss, built by the American Bridge Company of Chicago.
In 1891, the original bridge was replaced by a pair of 149' Pratt Through Truss spans, and a 297' Pratt Through Truss swing span. In addition, a long trestle approached the north end of the bridge. Some sources report that the bridge was fabricated by the railroad itself.
In 1910, the bridge was rebuilt again, replacing the two 149' spans with newer 6-panel Riveted Warren Through Trusses, and numerous deck plate girder spans were built to replace the trestle approach. The two truss spans were reused at Sauk City, Wisconsin, where they still exist today.
By 1981, the swing span had become obsolete for railroad traffic, and it was decided to rebuild it. As a result, the current vertical lift span was constructed, replacing the swing span and one truss.
The lift span itself is massive, covering 325 feet, plus an extended portion to 495 feet to cover the approaches for the towers.
On the towers, there is still a large Milwaukee Road sign, nearly 40 years after the railroad ceased to exist.
Overall, the bridge remains in good condition. However, the remaining historic truss may be a candidate for replacement in the future.
The author has ranked this bridge as being moderately significant, due to the remaining historic truss span.
The photo above is an overview.
| Upstream | Rock Island Swing Bridge |
| Downstream | Reeds Landing Pontoon Bridge |