Morgan Draw, Railway bridge in Middlesex County, United States
Morgan Draw is a railway bridge crossing Cheesequake Creek between Sayreville and Laurence Harbor in New Jersey. It features six spans with the main opening measuring approximately 79 feet and employs a rolling lift mechanism to allow marine traffic to pass underneath.
The bridge was constructed in 1912 by the Scherzer Rolling Lift Bridge Company as part of regional rail expansion along the North Jersey Coast Line. It was designed by engineer Harry L. Thomas and has served freight and passenger traffic ever since.
The structure represents a key component of New Jersey's industrial advancement, supporting the North Jersey Coast Line's transportation network between major stations.
The bridge opens on demand for vessel passage and provides approximately 3 feet of clearance when fully closed. The rolling lift mechanism requires regular maintenance, especially after severe weather events, which can occasionally impact train schedules.
The bridge suffered severe damage from storm surge during Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and underwent extensive reconstruction efforts to return to service. The restoration highlighted how vulnerable older rail infrastructure can be to major coastal weather events.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
