Side view from a distance
In the background is the Discovery Bridge
Photo taken by James Baughn
BH Photo #107087
I'll just read about your crossing attempt in the news....
I should say, try to cross. I think they have those safety platforms at intervals....
Has anyone crossed on foot?? I'm going to.
Actually, you can see them in the Google Map on this page. Zoom into the corner of Olive and N. 3rd in Satellite view. You can see them in Street View too!
Years ago I discovered what I believe to be two of the old bridge's approach span bases in St. Charles. They were being used as plant boxes in a vacant lot. It was odd to see these two large bases, neither of which were perpendicular to either the street or the sidewalk, at an angle coinciding with the curvature of the west approach spans leading up to the St. Charles depot. I'll see if I can find the photos I took of them.
This is now the Norfolk Southern Railroad. The Wabash name has not been used since Norfolk & Western took over in 1964, and N&W merged with Southern in 1982.
The 1871 St. Charles Railroad Bridge was located about 1/2 mile south of the current St. Charles Railroad Bridge. The alignment of the 1871 Bridge on the St. Charles side of the river was between Olive Street and French Street.
Of course, I've pretty much abandoned the idea. I don't have the time and definitely don't want to be arrested. The bridge is so close to the highway someone would probably call it in,etc.