Charlestown High Bridge

Charlestown High Bridge crosses the Charles River with a double-deck Warren truss structure, connecting downtown Boston to the Charlestown neighborhood. It carries traffic from Interstate 93 and US Route 1 in both directions.

The bridge opened in 1954 as a major infrastructure project that modernized Boston's highway system. It replaced earlier river crossings that served the area since colonial times.

This crossing symbolizes mid-20th century decisions to expand car infrastructure through the city center. It shaped how people move between downtown and the neighborhood across the river.

The bridge is designed for vehicle traffic only and not accessible to pedestrians or bicycles. Visitors can view the structure from nearby shore areas or from overlooks at either end.

The bridge features an unusual northbound configuration where traffic lanes merge to accommodate Storrow Drive connections. This distinctive design choice created predictable congestion patterns that became a defining feature of Boston traffic.

Location: Massachusetts

Inception: 1954

Official opening: 1954

GPS coordinates: 42.36910,-71.06250

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:45