Highline Bridge

Highline Bridge spans the Kansas River with two levels, each containing two tracks, for a total of four railway tracks supporting train traffic. The structure uses a steel Baltimore through-truss design built to handle heavy loads.

Kansas City Terminal Railway completed this steel bridge in 1917, replacing a single-track structure from 1907. Construction took place under unique conditions since the old bridge had to remain operational during the building process.

The bridge symbolizes a time when Kansas City established itself as a central railway hub connecting multiple rail companies across the region. It shows the importance that train transportation held for the city's growth.

The bridge can be viewed from various vantage points, particularly well from areas along the Kansas River banks. A hydraulic system raises the bridge spans during high water, so heavy rains may occasionally cause temporary changes to traffic patterns.

A 1963 hydraulic system can raise the bridge spans by about 10.5 feet to protect the structure during flood conditions. This was an innovative solution to keep a working railway connection safe during extreme weather.

Official opening: 1917

GPS coordinates: 39.08430,-94.61080

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:46