Pennsylvania Avenue Bridge

Pennsylvania Avenue Bridge is an arch bridge that crosses Rock Creek and the Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway, connecting the neighborhoods of Georgetown and Foggy Bottom. The structure rises above the landscape to carry vehicle traffic between these two parts of the city.

The original structure was built between 1858 and 1860 under the direction of engineer Montgomery C. Meigs as innovative infrastructure for its time. A major upgrade came in 1913 when the bridge was widened to handle increasing traffic demands.

The bridge stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering practices, representing the evolution of American infrastructure during the industrial revolution period.

The crossing sits in an area with active vehicle traffic and access to nearby parks and walking paths for exploring the surroundings. Visitors should note that the bridge is primarily designed for vehicle traffic with pedestrian access available.

The original design incorporated 48-inch water pipe sections as load-bearing arches, making it the first major bridge in the United States built entirely from cast iron. This bold use of pipes as structural elements was an engineering innovation not seen elsewhere at that time.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Official opening: 1860

GPS coordinates: 38.90470,-77.05610

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:44