One prominent bridge that goes over the Harlem River is the Harlem River Lift Bridge, also widely known as the Park Avenue Bridge.
The Harlem River Lift Bridge: A Key Cross-River Link
The Harlem River Lift Bridge is a vital piece of New York City's transportation infrastructure, facilitating crucial rail connections between two major boroughs. It serves as a testament to engineering and continues to play a significant role in daily commutes.
Key Characteristics
This bridge is specifically designed as a vertical lift bridge, a type of movable bridge that raises a central section vertically to allow water traffic to pass underneath.
- Official Name: Harlem River Lift Bridge
- Common Name: Park Avenue Bridge
- Type: Vertical Lift Bridge
- Location: Spans the Harlem River, connecting the boroughs of Manhattan and the Bronx.
Operational Importance
The Harlem River Lift Bridge is integral to the regional transit network, carrying multiple lines for the Metro-North Railroad.
- Rail Lines Carried:
- Metro-North Railroad's Hudson Line
- Metro-North Railroad's Harlem Line
- Metro-North Railroad's New Haven Line
- Ridership Impact: The lines utilizing this bridge collectively serve a substantial number of commuters, with an average weekday ridership of approximately 265,000. This highlights the bridge's critical role in connecting residential areas in the Bronx and beyond with commercial and cultural centers in Manhattan.
Connecting Boroughs
The bridge provides a direct railway link, ensuring seamless travel for thousands of passengers daily. Its location over the Harlem River is strategic, enabling efficient transit for commuters heading to and from Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan. The structure is a key component of New York's intricate network of bridges and waterways, ensuring both land and water traffic can operate effectively.
To learn more about the engineering and history of this significant structure, you can visit its Wikipedia page.
