Washington Crossing Bridge (40th Street Bridge)

Website:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_Crossing_Bridge_(Pittsburgh)

Telephone:

Location:

Millvale, PA 15209

Description:

The Washington Crossing Bridge, commonly referred to as the Fortieth Street Bridge, is an iconic arch bridge spanning the Allegheny River, connecting the Pittsburgh neighborhood of Lawrenceville with the suburb of Millvale. Adorned with seals representing the original 13 colonies of the United States and Allegheny County, this bridge serves as a symbol of historical significance.

Constructed between 1919 and late 1924, with its official opening ceremony held on December 29, 1924, the Washington Crossing Bridge was initially designed to accommodate two lanes of traffic and a single streetcar line, with a total estimated cost of $2,344,000 upon completion. A significant renovation in 1982 facilitated the addition of a reversible third automobile lane, enhancing traffic flow.

The bridge derives its name from its location at a site steeped in historical significance related to George Washington's military endeavors. In 1753, then-Major Washington embarked on a mission to deliver an ultimatum to French forces regarding the return of Western Pennsylvania lands to the British. During this expedition, Washington famously crossed the Allegheny River on a wooden raft, narrowly escaping a near-fatal incident when his vessel capsized at this precise location.