Queen Street Viaduct, Steel truss bridge in Riverside, Canada
The Queen Street Viaduct is a steel structure spanning the Don River that carries four traffic lanes and double streetcar tracks across its metal framework. The bridge connects Toronto's east and west sections while providing separate pathways for vehicles, streetcars, and pedestrians.
The bridge was built in 1911 by the Cleveland Bridge & Engineering Company, replacing an older wooden structure from 1803. This shift from wood to steel marked Toronto's transition into modern industrial infrastructure.
The public art installation on the bridge features a clock and philosophical text that invites walkers to think about change and the passage of time. The artwork speaks to visitors who cross here, creating a moment of reflection in their everyday journey.
The bridge has clearly marked separate areas for different types of traffic, making it straightforward for visitors to find their designated crossing route. Walking across during quieter times helps you appreciate the art installation and the river views without traffic congestion.
The bridge's steel came from six different English and Scottish mills, making it an unusual example of early industrial-age engineering and trade. This diverse material sourcing demonstrates how international construction projects were during that period.
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