Singing Bridge

The Singing Bridge is a steel truss structure spanning 409 feet (125 meters) across the Kentucky River, connecting St. Clair Street to Bridge Street in downtown Frankfort. Its open-grate steel deck creates the acoustic effect that gives the bridge its distinctive name when vehicles pass over it.

Built in 1893 by the King Bridge Company of Cleveland, this structure replaced an earlier covered bridge that had served Frankfort since 1847. The conversion to an open-grate steel deck in 1937 transformed its acoustic properties and established its current character.

The bridge earned its name from the distinct sound produced when vehicles cross its open-grate steel deck, which was installed during modifications in 1937. This musical quality makes the crossing a memorable experience for locals and visitors alike.

The bridge is open to both pedestrians and vehicles, with the open structure providing unobstructed views during crossing. Weight restrictions apply following structural assessments, so visitors and drivers should observe posted limitations.

The Pennsylvania truss design was developed when engineers favored this system for achieving long spans with minimal material usage. This early engineering approach makes the bridge a surviving example of an important development in 19th-century bridge construction.

Location: Kentucky

Official opening: 1893

GPS coordinates: 38.19650,-84.87890

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:20