U.S. 40 and 59 Bridges, Road bridge in Lawrence, Kansas.
The U.S. 40 and 59 Bridges consist of twin multi-beam girder structures spanning across the Kansas River, with separate northbound and southbound lanes.
Constructed in 1864, the original bridge at this location was the first crossing point over the Kansas River west of Kansas City and operated as a toll bridge until 1879.
The bridges represent the evolution of American transportation infrastructure, connecting communities and facilitating regional commerce between Lawrence and surrounding areas.
The east bridge carries northbound traffic from Massachusetts Street while the west bridge handles southbound traffic connecting to Vermont Street, merging into North 2nd Street.
Throughout their history, the bridges underwent multiple reconstructions due to flood damage in 1876 and 1903, with the current structures dating from 1978 and 1980.
Location: Kansas
Official opening: 1864
GPS coordinates: 38.97620,-95.23570
Latest update: November 28, 2025 14:29
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