This massive viaduct once crossed over Ellison Creek just to the east of Media, Illinois.
Built in 1894, the bridge was later expanded for a second track in 1907. Containing a whopping 15 spans, the entire bridge is set onto steel towers and concrete blocks.
Evidence of the rebuild is quite clear. On the towers, a center portion clearly converges towards the middle of the structure. As part of the 1907 remodel, the towers were rebuilt with vertical pieces on either side of the existing tower.
Additional evidence can be found in the girders. Underneath the bridge are four girder lines. The center girders are clearly older and have different bracings. An additional girder line was added on either side, resting on the newer vertical portions of the towers.
As a result, each track effectively sits on one old girder and one new girder. The author had never before seen a structure quite like this, and has not seen it again since.
However, replacement of this unique bridge occured during 2017 and 2018. When the above photos were taken in March 2017, work had just begun. Since then, the old bridge was demolished in April 2018.
Overall, the bridge remains in fair condition, despite replacement plans. However, the bridge is likely an operational liability for the railroad, due to the extensive remodeling and old age.
No plaques were visible on the bridge, although at the time of photography, the author was not aware of the remodel history.
The author has ranked this bridge as being regionally significant, due to the unique design and unique history of the bridge.
The photo above is an overview. The bridge could be accessed from a road which it crosses.