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First designed in 1897, this eight-span
swing bridge across the Harlem River currently carries four
lanes of vehicular traffic from Manhattan at West 145th
Street to West 149th Street in the Bronx and back. A lack
of funding in 1899 allowed for a second look at the design,
which was determined to have an overly long span and an
inadequate width. Under the supervision of consulting engineer
Professor William H. Burr, it was shortened from 400 feet
to a span of 300 feet and 84 feet wide versus 70 feet. Construction
began in October of 1900 and was completed in early 1905,
but the opening was delayed until August 1905 due to the
construction of the subway tunnel under the river, just
south of the bridge (the Number 2 IRT line). Between each
outer truss and the inner truss the bridge carried one trolley
track and one roadway. Sidewalks and curbs were
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reconstructed in 1938, as well
as modifications to allow automobile traffic. In 1957, both
the Manhattan and Bronx approaches were reconstructed to
accommodate the post-war increase in automobiles. The swing
span floor system was replaced twice, in 1950 and 1972.
Yankee Stadium, visible from W. 145th Street, can be reached
via the bridge by car, bicycle or even on foot, if you're
feeling adventurous. Keep in mind, however, that the bridge
measures 693'-1¼" long along the centerline
between abutments!
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