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McKeesport Bridge (Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad)

Coordinates: 40°21′04″N 79°52′13″W / 40.351031°N 79.870253°W / 40.351031; -79.870253
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P&LE McKeesport Bridge
Coordinates40°21′N 79°52′W / 40.35°N 79.87°W / 40.35; -79.87
CarriesCSX Keystone Subdivision
CrossesYoughiogheny River
LocaleMcKeesport, Pennsylvania
Characteristics
DesignTruss bridge
Total length781 feet
Clearance below31 ft
History
Opened1968
Location
Map

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

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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.

References

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40°21′04″N 79°52′13″W / 40.351031°N 79.870253°W / 40.351031; -79.870253