P&LE McKeesport Bridge | |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 40°21′N 79°52′W / 40.35°N 79.87°W |
| Carries | CSX Keystone Subdivision |
| Crosses | Youghiogheny River |
| Locale | McKeesport, Pennsylvania |
| Characteristics | |
| Design | Truss bridge |
| Total length | 781 feet |
| Clearance below | 31 ft |
| History | |
| Opened | 1968 |
| Location | |
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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.
History and architectural features
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.