The Chain Of Rocks Bridge, spanning the mighty Mississippi River, is a historic landmark with a unique 30-degree bend midway across its mile-long expanse. Towering over 60 feet above the water, this bridge served as a significant landmark for Route 66 travelers for over three decades. Today, it stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and offers breathtaking views of the river. This article delves into the history, construction, and modern-day significance of this iconic chain of rocks bridge.
Navigating the Treacherous Chain of Rocks
The bridge’s name derives from the treacherous “Chain of Rocks,” a 17-mile stretch of rocky rapids north of St. Louis. These submerged rock ledges made navigation extremely hazardous for riverboats. Before the bridge’s construction in 1929, this chain of rocks posed a serious threat to boatmen. In the 1960s, the Army Corps of Engineers constructed a low-water dam submerging the rocks, altering the river’s landscape.
Construction and Controversy: The Bend in the Bridge
Originally designed as a straight bridge, the Chain of Rocks Bridge was ultimately built with its distinctive curve due to protests from riverboat captains. The initial design interfered with water intake towers for a pumping station and crossed a section of the river with insufficient bedrock to support the piers. To address these concerns, the bridge was modified to include a 30-degree turn, a unique feature that distinguishes it from other bridges. Construction began in 1927, with piers completed by August 1928. However, floods and ice delayed the grand opening until July 1929. The final cost, exceeding $2.5 million, was double the initial estimate.
From Route 66 Icon to Abandoned Relic
The Chain of Rocks Bridge became part of the official Route 66 experience in 1936, offering travelers picturesque views and access to the Chain of Rocks amusement park. During World War II, the bridge’s red sections were painted green for camouflage, and gas rationing reduced traffic. To compensate, tolls were increased significantly. With the opening of the new Interstate 270 bridge in 1967, the old Chain of Rocks Bridge closed in 1968 and fell into disrepair. Demolition plans were considered in the 1970s, but the low value of scrap steel saved the bridge from destruction.
Rebirth as a Bikeway and Pedestrian Bridge
Abandoned for years, the Chain of Rocks Bridge found new life in the 1980s with the growing popularity of greenways and pedestrian corridors. The group Trailnet spearheaded cleanup and restoration efforts. In 1999, the bridge reopened as part of the Route 66 Bikeway, connecting to a vast network of trails on both sides of the river. This transformation marked a shift from the automobile age to a focus on alternative transportation and recreation.
Experiencing the Chain of Rocks Bridge Today
Today, the Chain of Rocks Bridge offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing early 20th-century bridge construction. Its unique bend, historic significance, and panoramic river views make it a must-see attraction. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006, the bridge is open to bikers and pedestrians daily.
