Ready to discover a hidden gem of engineering? The Lyndhurst Draw stands before us. It is a testament to early 20th-century innovation.
The Lyndhurst Draw is a railroad bridge. It elegantly crosses the Passaic River. This vital artery connects Clifton and Lyndhurst. Both towns are in northeastern New Jersey. The bridge was completed in 1903. It continues to be owned and operated by New Jersey Transit Rail Operations or NJT.
Imagine the scene back then. The Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad spearheaded this project. They aimed to improve transport of passengers and freight. This was part of their Boonton Branch initiative.
The Lyndhurst Draw isn’t just any bridge. It is a swing bridge. Picture the central span gracefully pivoting to allow boats to pass. Its total length measures 441 feet or 134 meters. The longest span stretches 155.8 feet or 47.5 meters.
Strategically situated, the Lyndhurst Draw sits between the Lyndhurst and Delawanna stations. These stations are on NJT’s Main Line. It marks a crucial point. It is 8.52 miles or 13.71 kilometers from Hoboken Terminal. It is also 11.7 miles or 18.8 kilometers from the river’s mouth at Newark Bay.
Today, the Lyndhurst Draw still plays a vital role. Norfolk Southern Railway uses the bridge. They access Croxton Yard to the east. This extends across the New Jersey Meadowlands. Federal regulations mandate that the bridge must open. This happens with a 24-hour notice.
The lower Passaic River is tidally influenced. This makes navigation possible. The Lyndhurst Draw facilitates this navigation. It balances rail transport with maritime traffic. This ensures both can thrive.
Over the years, the Lyndhurst Draw has seen changes. In 1960, the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad merged. It joined with the Erie Railroad. They formed the Erie Lackawanna. By 1963, the Erie’s Main Line south of Paterson was abandoned. Service shifted to the alignment over the Lyndhurst Draw.
Later, Conrail took over operations. They contracted with the New Jersey Department of Transportation. Since 1983, NJT has been in charge.
The Lyndhurst Draw is more than steel and rivets. It symbolizes progress and adaptation. It is a reminder of our industrial past. It continues to serve our modern needs. It has been added to the New Jersey Register of Historic Places. This ensures its preservation for future generations.
As we stand here, think about the trains that have crossed this bridge. Think about the goods and people transported. The Lyndhurst Draw is a silent witness to history. It quietly contributes to the region’s commerce and connectivity.
The Lyndhurst Draw stands as a proud landmark. It bridges not just the Passaic River. It also bridges the past and the present.