This large truss bridge crosses the Des Moines River between Des Moines and Urbandale.
As part of the highly successful Interurban Trail, the bridge is in similar to condition to when it was built for the railroad.
The four main spans of the bridge are Pratt Through Trusses with 7 panels and pinned connections. Three of these spans (Spans #1-#3 from west) are identical, with a decorative type portal bracing. However, the fourth/eastern span has a different portal bracing. In addition, the eastern span has different vertical members.
It is possible that this is the result of buying four random spans to save costs when building the bridge in 1905. The trusses appear to date to the late 1880s or early 1890s. In addition, the spans feature some unique features, such as double pinned connections, commonly seen on bridges older than 1895.
Resting on steel cylinder substructures, the bridge was once approached by trestle spans. These were replaced by modern beam spans designed for the trail in 2012.
If this bridge is indeed relocated, it is unknown where it may have come from, or what railroad would've sold it.
The author has ranked this bridge as being regionally significant, due to the unique design of these trusses. Further research will be conducted on this bridge.
Fortunately, it appears that the bridge will be around for generations to come. Serving one of the most popular bike trails in the area, the bridge is highly visible in the community.
The photo above is an overview. The photo below is a view of bracings on Span #4. The bridge can be accessed from the trail it carries.
| Upstream | Granger High Bridge |
| Downstream | Birdland Park Railroad Bridge |
These Pictures Start at varying points in the Series
