Junction Bridge

Field visit revealed a 1970 American Bridge plaque. Additionally truss spans show built-up design and use of bolted field connections typical of 1970. Clearly all of the superstructure dates to 1970. What is uncertain is whether the piers are concrete dating to 1970, or are the original piers encased in concrete (possible, given unusually high deterioration of concrete).

An interpretive plaque reads only "original construction 1884" which is technically true, but no mention of the total replacement in 1970 is made, which is likely where the confusion originates. As a bridge historian its a pet peeve of mine when interpretive signage is so misleading.

I'm sure it was rehabbed in the early 1970s possibly elevated for what would be the newly completed (at the time) McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System.

1970 would make sense based on the design and style of the bridge. The only thing I could see in the posted photos that might date to 1884 is one of the abutments shown is stone. But the piers are all concrete. Maybe there is stone inside... but that's about the best that could be hoped for... again based on available posted photos.

From what I can tell, the bridge was reconstructed in 1970. I'm not sure how much of the original 1884 structure is left.

There is absolutely no way on earth (or any other planet) that this bridge was built in 1884. Looks like a 50s or 60s bridge to me.

This bridge is amazing to get night shots of, it's located in the river market and the lighting is amazing. Sure there's some graffiti on it, but it adds to the effect.

Yes the lift span is in the raised position and is accessed via elevators at either end. The renovation work included a new concrete deck ,guard rails, and the afore mentioned elevators. The bridge is monitored by security cameras and is wi-fi hot spot.

Can anyone explain to me...is the bridge section lifted? I'd love to get some information on the restoration and if they are using the 'upper deck'.

thanks!

That is a fantastic night shot John !

Hey Max, yes Choctaw bridge & Rock Island are one and the same.

Wayne

this bridge Fred and Wayne call the "Choctaw" bridge, is this the Rock Island bridge beside the Clinton library?

can anyone clear that up?

Thanks Fred,

They really did a great job on the bridge. Go see it as soon as you are able, it is well worth the trip.

Hopefully they will start on the Choctaw soon.

Best regards,

Wayne Kizziar

Wayne,

Sensational photographs of the Junction Bridge. Hope to get across it real soon. Love the pedestrian connection between LR & NLR. Will be great when the Choctaw lift span is rehabed in the same manner.

Fred Garcia

Hot Springs Village

THANK YOU SHOW ME PHOTO OF Junction Bridge. I have photo at there since August 2002. It was open about 1950. track was removed on bridge after summer 2000. THANK YOU.

Its great they did that!

I love to see somthing like a truss bridge saved.

Its like a historic building saved

That's actually one of the most beautiful photos of a bridge that I've seen.