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UP Des Moines River Bridge (Des Moines)

Subdivided Warren Through Truss Bridge over Des Moines River
Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa

Click the Photo Above to See All Photos of This Bridge!
Name UP Des Moines River Bridge (Des Moines)
Built By Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Railroad
Contractor American Bridge Company of New York
Currently Owned By Union Pacific Railroad
Length 459 Feet Total, 160 Foot Spans
Width 1 Track
Height Above Ground 20 Feet (Estimated)
Superstructure Type Subdivided Warren Through Truss
Substructure Type Stone Masonry
Date Built 1920
Traffic Count 15 Trains/Day (Estimated)
Current Status In Use
UP Bridge Number 72.30
Significance Moderate Significance
Documentation Date November 2012 (Photos 1-3); September 2017 (Photos 4-19)


This large through truss bridge crosses the Des Moines River just south of Downtown Des Moines.
Built in 1920, the three truss spans overshadow the surrounding landscape. These trusses feature riveted connections and a Subdivided Warren Through Truss design.
Originally when built, the structure also had a sizable trestle approach to the north. That was removed in the 1980s and replaced by a new approach.
The substructures of this bridge contain both concrete and stone. Previous bridges here are unknown, but it is assumed they would also have been through truss spans.
Overall, the bridge remains in good condition with a steady traffic base crossing the bridge.

The author has ranked the bridge as being moderate significant, due to the newer age of the bridge.
The photo above is an overview from the south bank. The bridge can be accessed from local walking trails.

Des Moines River Railroad Bridges
Upstream CGW Des Moines River Bridge
Downstream CB&Q Des Moines River Bridge

Citations

Source Type

Source

Build Date Missing American Bridge Company plaque
Contractor Missing American Bridge Company plaque
Railroad Line History Source ICC Valuation Information, Compiled by Richard S. Steele