UP Rock Creek Bridge (Kimmswick)

Located in the town of Kimmswick, this pony truss bridge carries the former Missouri Pacific over Rock Creek and Mississippi Street. The first bridge at this location was likely a wooden or combination truss. In 1902, that bridge would be replaced by the present 103-foot, 6-panel riveted Warren pony truss span. This span was likely approached by timber trestle. In 1947, the approaches would be reconstructed with secondhand spans. The southern approach consists of two 40-foot deck plate girder spans, approached by an 18-foot concrete slab span. These girder spans appear to have been fabricated in approximately 1895, and have numerous signs of alterations, including holes throughout. The north approach consists of three 30-foot deck plate girder spans. The center of these spans was replaced in approximately 1980, when the north approach was reconstructed. The remaining north approach spans were fabricated in approximately 1905, and feature a typical design for the era. None of the girder spans had a plaque visible. The substructures of the bridge consist of concrete piers and abutments, with steel pile piers supporting the north approach. The truss span, known as a lattice girder, was a common design during the late 1890s and early 1900s, before it was superseded by girder designs of similar lengths. These spans were popular with some railroads, as they provided a cost effective, strong and simple design. The span utilizes solid members and riveted connections, typical of these spans. Overall, the bridge appears to be in fair condition, with no significant deterioration noted. Several repairs have been made to both the truss and the girders. The author has ranked the bridge as being regionally significant, due to the relatively few remaining spans of this design.