The Letchworth State Park Railroad Bridge, also known as the Genesee Arch Bridge or Portage Viaduct, is a stunning steel arch railroad bridge that spans the Genesee River in Letchworth State Park, Livingston County, New York. This impressive structure is the third bridge to be built at this location, with the original timber bridge having been destroyed by a fire in 1875 and the subsequent iron bridge being replaced in 2017.
The Bridge’s Impressive Specifications
The Letchworth State Park Railroad Bridge is a deck arch bridge made of steel, with the following impressive specifications:
- Total Length: 963 feet (293.5 m)
- Longest Span: 483 feet (147.2 m)
- Clearance Below: 240 feet (73.2 m)
The bridge was designed by the renowned engineering firm Modjeski & Masters, Inc. and constructed by the American Bridge Company. Construction on the new bridge began on October 27, 2015, and the bridge was officially opened on December 11, 2017.
The Bridge’s Storied History
The original timber bridge at this location was built in 1852 and was the longest and tallest wooden bridge in the world at the time. Sadly, this impressive structure was destroyed by a fire in 1875. The iron bridge that replaced it was built in just 53 days and served the area until it was deemed insufficient for modern rail traffic and replaced by the current steel arch bridge.
In 2011, Norfolk Southern Railway announced plans to build a new bridge approximately 75 feet (23 m) to the south of the 1875 bridge. The new bridge was estimated to cost $71 million and was completed in 2018. The old iron bridge was offered to the State of New York as a tourist viewing platform of the Upper Falls, but the state declined due to a lack of available funding. The last pieces of the 1875 bridge were demolished in March 2018.
The Bridge’s Significance
The Letchworth State Park Railroad Bridge is not only an impressive engineering feat but also a vital piece of infrastructure for the region. The bridge carries the Southern Tier Line of Norfolk Southern Railway, which is a crucial freight route connecting the eastern and western United States.
Prior to the construction of the current bridge, the iron bridge that it replaced was identified as one of the most significant rail bottlenecks in the state due to its inability to carry freight loads at the current rail industry standard and the restrictions on trains crossing it at standard speeds.
Exploring the Letchworth State Park Railroad Bridge
Visitors to Letchworth State Park can enjoy stunning views of the Letchworth State Park Railroad Bridge from various vantage points within the park. The bridge is particularly impressive when viewed from the park’s many hiking trails, which offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Genesee River Gorge and the surrounding natural beauty.
For those interested in learning more about the bridge’s history and construction, the park’s visitor center and interpretive exhibits provide detailed information and educational resources.
Conclusion
The Letchworth State Park Railroad Bridge is a true marvel of engineering and a testament to the ingenuity and determination of those who have worked to maintain and improve this vital piece of infrastructure. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world, a visit to Letchworth State Park and a glimpse of the Letchworth State Park Railroad Bridge is sure to leave a lasting impression.