I Street Bridge, Historic railway and road bridge in Sacramento, United States
The I Street Bridge spans the Sacramento River with two distinct levels, accommodating railroad tracks on the lower deck and vehicle lanes on the upper level. The structure is a metal truss design featuring a rotating central span that can swing horizontally to permit water traffic passage.
The American Bridge Company completed this metal swing bridge in 1912, connecting Sacramento with Yolo County. Its completion marked a turning point for regional connectivity and supported the commercial growth of the era.
The bridge demonstrates early twentieth-century engineering methods and reflects the rapid infrastructure development that occurred during California's growth period. It served as a vital transportation hub connecting people and goods between Sacramento and surrounding areas.
The upper deck offers adequate clearance with pedestrian walkways on both sides for foot traffic. The lower level experiences regular train operations throughout the day, so caution is advised when approaching those areas.
The structure features a rotating central mechanism that can pivot on its axis to allow river vessels to pass through. This innovative design choice kept the waterway open for commercial shipping while maintaining road and rail connections.
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