Dubuque Rail Bridge
History
The original swing bridge was constructed by Andrew Carnegie and operated by the Dunleith & Dubuque Bridge Company. Going into service in December 1868, it primarily was used by the Illinois Central Railroad. It was rebuilt in the 1890s.
The current Dubuque Rail Bridge has 5 spans and a swing-span. It has been altered somewhat over the years, with last rehabilitation in 2012, but so far has retained the fixed center pier.
Operation
Because of a 150-foot (46 m) bluff very close to the Mississippi riverbank on the Illinois side, about 1/2 mile south of the bridge the approaching railroad track diverges away from the main tracks (and the river) to enter a 1/4-mile tunnel, which then curves about 90-degrees so the bridge track can cross the continuing tracks running adjacent to the river.
See also
References
- ^ Ringwalt, J.L. (1888). "Development of Early Transportation Systems in the United States". Retrieved 2008-08-08.
- ^ "Dubuque Railroad Bridge (Illinois Central Bridge W182)". "Historic Bridges. Retrieved March 3, 2022.
- ^ "Canadian National Railroad Bridge, Dubuque, IA". www.johnweeks.com.
External links