McKeesport Bridge (Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad)

(Redirected from P&LE McKeesport Bridge)

The P&LE McKeesport Bridge is an American truss bridge which spans the Youghiogheny River and connects the east and west banks of the Pittsburgh industrial suburb of McKeesport, Pennsylvania.

P&LE McKeesport Bridge
Coordinates40°21′N 79°52′W / 40.35°N 79.87°W / 40.35; -79.87
CarriesCSX Keystone Subdivision
CrossesYoughiogheny River
LocaleMcKeesport, Pennsylvania
Characteristics
DesignTruss bridge
Total length781 feet
Clearance below31 ft
History
Opened1968
Location
Map

History and architectural features

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In 1968, the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie Railroad undertook a major construction project in conjunction with the B&O Railroad to clear tracks from downtown McKeesport. These tracks caused traffic congestion and posed a safety hazard. As a result, both this bridge and the nearby P&LE Liberty Boro Bridge were created to direct rail traffic to the west bank of the river, which featured a less confusing street grid.

Before the construction of this structure, an elaborate 1881 bridge stood on the site, which connected two P&LE lines. With both the P&LE and B&O having ceased operations, the structure currently serves the Pittsburgh-to-Cumberland, Maryland CSX Keystone Subdivision.

References

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40°21′04″N 79°52′13″W / 40.351031°N 79.870253°W / 40.351031; -79.870253