Freeport Rail Bridge

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Freeport Rail Bridge
Freeport Rail Bridge - over Allegheny 02.JPG
Freeport Rail Bridge iron work
Freeport Rail Bridge - over Allegheny 03.JPG
Freeport Rail Bridge. Looking toward Freeport from Allegheny Township.
Coordinates 40°40′38″N79°40′15″W / 40.6773°N 79.6707°W / 40.6773; -79.6707 Coordinates: 40°40′38″N79°40′15″W / 40.6773°N 79.6707°W / 40.6773; -79.6707
Carries1 track of the Norfolk Southern Railway
Crosses Allegheny River
Locale Freeport and Allegheny Township
Characteristics
Design truss bridge
MaterialSteel
Total length1105 ft.
Piers in water4
History
Opened1950
Location
Freeport Rail Bridge

The Freeport Rail Bridge is a truss bridge that carries the Norfolk Southern Railway across the Allegheny River between Freeport and Allegheny Township in Pennsylvania.

A structure originally created on this site by the Pennsylvania Railroad as part of their West Penn Line in 1866. In 1895, the railroad replaced this bridge; the third and current incarnation was completed in 1950, along with new approach ramps that eliminated a narrow tunnel.

Prior to 1957, passenger service was carried along this line (the Conemaugh Line) alongside freight. Following the decline of the PRR, Conrail took over control of the bridge. Currently, it is operated as part of the Pittsburgh Division of Norfolk Southern.

See also

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