Highline Bridge

The largest and newest of all of the river crossings in Kansas City is the massive double decked bridge crossing the Kansas River.
Commonly known as the Highline Bridge; the structure connects to over a mile of elevated viaducts on either side of the river. However this webpage focuses on the the three main river spans.
The most unique factor is the double deck design of this bridge. The largest span is a massive 10-panel Baltimore Through Truss. On the east, it is approached by a 9-panel version of the same type. These spans contain a combination of pin connected and riveted connections.
In addition, another span approaches on the west. This span is a riveted, 6-panel Warren Through Truss (deck truss to upper tracks).
The entire bridge rests on concrete substructures. The bridge was built to hold four tracks. The upper tracks were specifically requested by the Missouri Pacific Railway; to replace heavy operations on their bridge.
The upper tracks connected to the Omaha line of the Missouri Pacific to the west. However, to the east it would connect to the dual mainlines across the state.
The tracks on the bottom were built specifically for the Kansas City Terminal Railway; and connect the various yards in Kansas to the Union Station.

The bridge has changed a bit since first built. A rehabilitation was done in 2005 to restore full service to the bridge.

In addition, the Kansas River has a reputation for flooding quite often. Fortunately for this bridge, it has survived every major flood largely intact. A screw jack lift system was installed after the mega flood of 1951; which destroyed bridges in Topeka.
The bridge is very difficult to access. It is hoped a new system of levee trails will be built and make access far easier.
The bridge is in great condition. This is likely due to the 2005 rehabilitation.

The author has ranked this bridge as being moderately significant due to the large span length and extremely unique design.
The photo above is an overview from the west bank.