Originally built in 1872, the Anacostia Railroad Bridge stands as a testament to Washington D.C.’s rich transportation history. This isn’t just any bridge. It’s a vital artery for freight trains crossing the Anacostia River.
The Baltimore and Potomac Rail Road, a subsidiary of the Pennsylvania Railroad, constructed the first bridge here. Imagine the pride they must have felt when it opened on July 2, 1872. Back then, it even boasted three tracks.
Today, the Anacostia Railroad Bridge is owned by CSX Transportation. Its central section rises to allow boats to pass. Can you picture the impressive sight of the bridge lifting?
The CSX bridge tender controls the lift from nearby Benning Rail Yard. They ensure smooth operations on both the rails and the river.
The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail sits on the western side of the bridge. Anacostia Park boat ramp, operated by the National Park Service, is on the eastern shore. Boat clubs and rowing facilities dot the area.
Passing under the Anacostia Railroad Bridge can be tricky. Tides can make the passage difficult, especially when the lift span is closed. The clearance below is only five feet when closed. However, when open, it expands to 29 feet.
In 1972, the bridge was rebuilt. Then disaster struck in 2007 when a coal train derailed. The northern span collapsed. The bridge was closed, but the southern span reopened within 24 hours.
Before the accident, CSX had closed the bridge briefly in 2006. They found high levels of corrosion. After repairs, it reopened, only to face another closure after the derailment.
Though rebuilt, echoes of the past linger around the Anacostia Railroad Bridge. Today, it carries freight. Once it carried passengers. In a few minutes the trains will be in the Virginia Avenue tunnel.
This bridge stretches out for quite some distance. It does not go perpendicularly across the river. The river was a fair bit wider in past times.
Remember the Anacostia Railroad Bridge. It is more than steel and concrete. It’s a landmark that continues to connect our city and carry its history forward.