Ready to uncover a hidden gem of Los Angeles? We are standing before the 7th Street Viaduct. This isn’t just a bridge. It’s a testament to the city’s history and engineering.
The 7th Street Viaduct is more than just concrete and steel. It is one of a group of twelve Los Angeles River Bridges. These bridges are eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The 7th Street Viaduct provided a route for cars and trolleys. It crossed over busy railroads.
Let’s step back in time to 1910. The 7th Street Viaduct was initially built as a three-span arch bridge. It crossed the Los Angeles River. The Los Angeles Railway Company shared the cost of the bridge with the city. The company operated the trolley system.
Now, picture this: It’s 1923. Traffic on the 7th Street Viaduct is becoming a problem. About 10,000 vehicles crossed it every day. The crossing gates were down for nine minutes each hour. This allowed the trolleys to pass.
Fast forward to 1927. A second deck was added to the 7th Street Viaduct. This allowed traffic to drive above the trains. The trains ran along both sides of the river. The first deck now supports the second deck. Three-column bents were added between each pier.
Take a closer look at the dimensions of the 7th Street Viaduct. It stretches 1,000 feet long. It is 56 feet wide. The three reinforced concrete deck arches are 92 feet in length.
The addition of the second deck seems like an afterthought. But it gives the 7th Street Viaduct an interesting look. The lamp posts atop each pier on the top deck add to its charm.
Imagine the Los Angeles River in 1910. It wasn’t yet a concrete channel. It was used as an open quarry. People made concrete from aggregates.
The 7th Street Viaduct stands as a reminder of Los Angeles’ past. It highlights the collaboration between the city and the Los Angeles Railway Company. It shows the evolution of transportation in the city.
As we conclude our visit to the 7th Street Viaduct, consider its layers of history. Think about the bustling traffic of the past and present. This bridge is more than just a crossing. It’s a symbol of Los Angeles’ growth.