Derby-Shelton Bridge

The Derby-Shelton Bridge connects Derby and Shelton across the Housatonic River using closed-spandrel concrete arches as its main structural support. This dual-purpose structure carries both vehicles and trains above the water, spanning approximately 466 feet from one bank to the other.

A wooden covered bridge first crossed this location in 1857, followed by a steel-arch bridge built in 1891. The current concrete structure was completed in 1918 by the Connecticut State Highway Department.

The bridge functions as a central meeting point between two communities, connecting Route 34 in Derby to Route 110 in Shelton through State Road 712.

The bridge features wide sidewalks and a dedicated cycle track for pedestrians and cyclists crossing on foot or by bike. Decorative lighting installed throughout helps with navigation and creates a safe passage, especially after dark.

The bridge's decorative lights are designed to follow dark-sky guidelines, minimizing light pollution in the surrounding area. This thoughtful design choice makes it an example of environmentally conscious infrastructure planning.

Location: Connecticut

Official opening: 1918

GPS coordinates: 41.31890,-73.09080

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:41