Across the Santa Fe River stands the Delgado Street Bridge. A silent sentinel it has witnessed the ebb and flow of Santa Fe’s history. This unassuming bridge holds a special place in the city’s narrative. It’s the oldest motor vehicle bridge in Santa Fe.
Built between 1927 and 1928 by the Levy Construction Company the Delgado Street Bridge boasts a reinforced concrete deck-girder design. This design wasn’t just aesthetically pleasing. It was practical too. The lack of a supporting pier meant that debris wouldn’t get caught during floods. A crucial detail in a city prone to flooding.
Before this bridge existed a predecessor stood in its place. This earlier structure was sadly swept away by floodwaters on September 30 1904. The city had already grappled with the river’s unpredictable nature. A 1903 ordinance aimed to protect the riverbank. However not all property owners complied. The flood underscored the urgent need for better flood protection and a more robust bridge.
The construction of the Delgado Street Bridge was not easy. It required funding. The city’s efforts were initially hampered by limited resources. Even after New Mexico became a state in 1912 federal aid was not readily available for local streets. The Federal Aid Road Act of 1916 changed things. It offered some assistance but only for state and federal highways.
The Delgado Street Bridge became a symbol of resilience. It was completed in 1928 a testament to the city’s perseverance. It’s distinctive panelled railings create a gateway-like appearance. The bridge stands as a reminder of Santa Fe’s determination to progress while preserving its unique character.
In 2015 the Delgado Street Bridge received further recognition. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This acknowledgement cemented its place as a significant historical landmark in Santa Fe. The bridge stands not just as a connector of roads but as a connector of past and present. A testament to Santa Fe’s spirit and its enduring legacy.