Fort Madison Bridge IA
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Description: The Fort Madison Bridge, also known as the Santa Fe Swing Span Bridge, is a significant historical and functional structure located in Fort Madison, Iowa. This double-deck bridge, which spans the Mississippi River, serves both rail and vehicular traffic, making it a vital transportation link between Iowa and Illinois. Constructed in 1927, the bridge features a unique swing span design that allows it to pivot open for river traffic, showcasing an impressive feat of engineering from the early 20th century. The upper deck accommodates two lanes of road traffic, while the lower deck is dedicated to rail traffic, primarily used by BNSF Railway. As one of the few remaining swing-span bridges in the United States, the Fort Madison Bridge stands as a testament to the ingenuity and durability of early American infrastructure, continuing to play a crucial role in regional connectivity and commerce.