Anacostia Railroad Bridge

The Anacostia Railroad Bridge is a railway bridge crossing the Anacostia River in Washington, D.C., designed with a lift mechanism that raises to allow boats to pass underneath. Two parallel tracks on the structure carry both freight and passenger trains across the waterway.

The bridge opened in 1872 as part of the Baltimore and Potomac Rail Road expansion into the capital region. It has undergone several reconstructions since then to meet changing transportation demands.

The bridge represents the evolution of American railway engineering, connecting different rail subdivisions while accommodating river navigation through its lift mechanism.

The bridge is typically not accessible to pedestrians, but you can view it from nearby riverbanks or surrounding streets. Your best views come from the Anacostia River Walk or from nearby bridge crossings.

A lift mechanism allows the bridge to raise and allow ship traffic to pass underneath, a notable feat of 19th century engineering. This feature remains functional and is still operated regularly, making it an active piece of working infrastructure.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Official opening: 1872

GPS coordinates: 38.88010,-76.97190

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:01