What stories could this bridge tell if it could speak? The 11th Street Bridge is more than just concrete and steel. It is a vital artery connecting Anacostia with the rest of Washington D.C.
Let’s explore the history and significance of the 11th Street Bridge. It is actually a complex of three bridges spanning the Anacostia River. These bridges carry Interstate 695. They connect to Interstate 295 and DC 295. The 11th Street Bridge also bridges communities. It links the Anacostia neighborhood with the city.
The first bridge on this site dates back to around 1800. This early bridge played a role in the War of 1812. American soldiers burned it in 1814. It was rebuilt but then burned again in 1846.
In 1820 the Upper Navy Yard Bridge was built at 11th Street SE. It became a free bridge in 1848. Anacostia grew slowly after its founding until 1854. The destruction of the first bridge slowed growth for decades.
A second bridge replaced the Navy Yard Bridge in 1873. A stronger wider span replaced it again in 1907. The Bonus Army fled across this bridge in 1932. They were escaping the United States Army.
The 1960s saw more changes. A four-lane bridge opened in 1965 for northbound traffic. A second four-lane bridge replaced the Anacostia Bridge in 1969. Each bridge carried one-way traffic.
The southbound bridge was named the Officer Kevin J. Welsh Memorial Bridge. Officer Welsh drowned trying to save a woman in 1986. The northbound bridge was named the 11th Street Bridge.
These bridges became fracture critical. This means that failure of one girder could cause collapse. By 2004 the bridges carried 86000 vehicles per day.
In 2009 a project began to replace the 1960s bridges. The project included three new spans. Two for freeway traffic and one for local traffic were constructed. The northbound bridge opened in December 2011. The southbound bridge opened in January 2012. The local bridge opened in May 2012. The entire project cost $365 million. Phase one was done by July 2013. The local bridge was complete by September 2013. Phase two finished in 2015.
The 11th Street Bridge has undergone many changes. It reflects the city’s growth and transportation needs.
Anacostia Park was once segregated. The 11th Street Bridge served as the segregation line. The area north of the bridge was for white people. The area south of the bridge was for black people. Segregation ended here in 1949.
Today the 11th Street Bridge continues to evolve. It adapts to the needs of the community. It stands as a testament to Washington D.C.’s history. It also symbolizes connection and progress. As you cross the 11th Street Bridge remember its past. Think about its role in shaping the city. Consider its future as a vital link in Washington D.C.