Pelham Bay Bridge

The Pelham Bay Bridge is a railway structure in the Bronx that crosses the Hutchinson River using steel and concrete construction. Its most notable feature is a movable bascule opening that allows boats to pass while approach spans support the structure on both sides.

An original structure from 1815 was destroyed by a storm in 1816, creating an eighteen-year gap before another was built. A new crossing eventually restored this important transportation link across the river.

The bridge links communities across the Bronx and allows both trains and boats to pass through its moving span. This dual purpose shapes how the place functions in daily life.

The site is best accessed from the streets leading to the approach ramps on both sides of the crossing. Keep in mind that reconstruction plans are scheduled for the coming years, which may affect access to the area.

The bridge regularly opens for boats traveling along the waterway below. For instance, more than 700 openings were recorded in 2014, showing just how busy maritime traffic remains on this river corridor.

Location: The Bronx

Inception: 1907

Official opening: 1907

Length: 271.5 m

Longest Span: 24.9 m

Made from material: concrete, steel

GPS coordinates: 40.86340,-73.81790

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:05