Arch Street Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Arch Street Bridge |
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Arch Street Bridge in 2007
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| Coordinates | 40°55′24″N 74°10′12″W / 40.9233°N 74.1701°W |
| Crosses | Passaic River |
| Locale | Paterson, New Jersey |
| Owner | Passaic County |
| Maintained by | County |
| ID number | 1600015 |
| Characteristics | |
| Design | Parker truss |
| Material | steel |
| Total length | 184.1 feet (56.1 m) ft. |
| Width | 27.6 feet (8.4 m) |
| Longest span | 178.2 feet (54.3 m) |
| Number of spans | 1 |
| Clearance above | 13.7 feet (4.2 m) |
| History | |
| Constructed by | Oswego Bridge Company |
| Construction end | 1905 |
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The Arch Street Bridge is an important bridge in Paterson, New Jersey. It crosses the Passaic River and is known for its special design. This bridge has a long history, including being rebuilt after floods. Today, it is recognized as a historic landmark.
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What is the Arch Street Bridge?
The Arch Street Bridge is a type of bridge called a Parker truss bridge. A truss is a strong framework of connected triangles. This design helps the bridge hold a lot of weight. The bridge is made of steel, which makes it very strong and durable.
Where is the Arch Street Bridge Located?
This bridge is found in the city of Paterson, New Jersey. It spans over the Passaic River. The Passaic River is a major waterway in New Jersey. The bridge connects different parts of Paterson.
How Big is the Arch Street Bridge?
The Arch Street Bridge is about 184 feet (56 meters) long. Its main section stretches about 178 feet (54 meters). The bridge is also about 27 feet (8.4 meters) wide. These measurements show it's a good-sized bridge for local traffic.
A Bridge with a Past: Its History
The current Arch Street Bridge was finished in 1905. But it wasn't the first bridge at this spot. Two earlier bridges were built here. Sadly, both were destroyed by big floods.
Why Were Earlier Bridges Destroyed?
The Passaic River can sometimes flood very badly. In 1902 and 1903, huge floods hit the area. These powerful floods washed away the bridges that stood before the current one. This shows how important it was to build a very strong bridge.
What Was the Bridge Used For?
For many years, the Arch Street Bridge carried more than just cars. It was also a path for trolley lines. Trolleys were like electric buses that ran on tracks. They helped people travel around Paterson.
The Arch Street Bridge as a Historic Landmark
The Arch Street Bridge is not just a way to cross the river. It's also a historic landmark. This means it's an important part of history. It helps us remember how things were in the past.
Why is it a Historic Bridge?
Experts from the New Jersey Department of Transportation studied the bridge. They found it was special enough to be called historic. It was listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places in 2018. Soon after, it was also added to the National Register of Historic Places. These lists protect important places.
What Does "Historic" Mean for a Bridge?
Being on these lists means the bridge is important for its history or design. It helps preserve the bridge for future generations. It reminds us of the engineering and challenges of the past.
