Health & Fitness
APERTURE: Amtrak Bridge Opening
Often gone un-seen, Jeff Andrews, captures this rare event on the Susquehanna River. Turn-of-the-century (the LAST century) technology still at work today...
On a recent morning a rare event occurred in Havre de Grace that most residents never see. Some residents don't even realize it ever happens. A large tug and barge needed to transit up the Susquehanna to Port Deposit. Being taller than 52 feet meant that the Amtrak bridge would need to open to allow the tug passage.
Built in 1906 by the Pennsylvania Railroad, the Amtrak bridge is a center bearing swing bridge. While the total length of the bridge is 4,155 feet, the main span is a swing span of 277 feet. These days the bridge opens five to eight times a year.
A crew of 25 workers make their way to the main span, and unbolt sections of the track. Then a 150 horsepower diesel engine powers the swing span open to allow passage of any vessel less than 127 feet tall. Once the tug passes, the bridge rotates back into position, and the tracks are replaced. The entire process takes about 15 minutes.
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The photography is not great. It was a hazy day, and perhaps I didn't have the best vantage point. However, I hope you enjoy a glimpse of something most residents of Havre de Grace have never seen.
Jeff Andrews
