This line connected to a main line of the Milwaukee Road along the north edge of Cedar Rapids, as well as a line to north east Iowa.
Since it was originally constructed by the Milwaukee Road, it did not change hands during its first years of life. Instead, the Milwaukee Road operated this as a connecting line, effectively connecting two mainlines.
In 1913, the railroad changed its name to the Chicago, Milwaukee St. Paul & Pacific Railway, as part of a recently completed expansion to the Pacific Ocean.
Unfortunately for this route, the Milwaukee Road was commonly on the verge of bankruptcy and branch lines saw deterioration. This line was similar, seeing a sizable amount of deterioration before being abandoned.
The route was faced with bankruptcy in 1980, and the route south of Amana and the crossing with the Rock Island Railroad would be removed.
However, one small stub was sold to the Cedar Rapids & Iowa City Railway. This stub runs from Cedar Rapids to the Rock Island route at Amana.
Currently, both CIC and the Iowa Interstate Railroad operate this line, while the southern portion has been abandoned.
06/16/22
This through girder bridge crosses Prairie Creek near an area known as Beverly.
Built in 1902, the bridge consists of a pair of standard "C4" through girder spans, set onto concrete substructures. In addition, the bridge is approached by a trestle approach on the south side.
Since being abandoned, the bridge has served as an informal walking and hiking trail.
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the newer design and common design.
The photo above is an overview. The bridge can be easily accessed from the walking trail.