By 1870, the line would be completed to East Plattsmouth, Iowa. This location was set on the Missouri River.
Just across the river, in Plattsmouth, the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad of Nebraska continued building west.
The railroad reached Ashland by 1870, and Lincoln later that year. The expansion would continue west, ultimately reaching Denver.
The lines were purchased by the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad in 1875. To the east, the Iowa line connected to Chicago, via Burlington.
By 1880, the CB&Q completed a large bridge across the Missouri River at Plattsmouth, connecting the two lines.
Throughout the early 20th century, the line would be upgraded. In Iowa, many sections were constructed double track between Creston and Pacific Junction.
In Nebraska, the Ashland to Lincoln section was constructed double track in 1910.
The line served as a broader connection, connecting Denver and Chicago.
By 1970, the CB&Q merged with Great Northern and Northern Pacific to form Burlington Northern.
In 1996, BN merged with the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe to form BNSF Railway, who currently owns this line.
Presently, the Creston to Lincoln section is known as the Creston Subdivision, and sees a steady traffic base.
12/23/21
Located at the intersection of Cornhusker Highway (US-6) on the northeast side of Lincoln, this girder bridge crosses N. 48th Street.
Built in 1938, the bridge features a through girder span, approached by a steel stringer span on either side. The entire bridge is set onto concrete substructures, and features a ballasted deck.
The plaque found suggests this bridge was built by Omaha Steel Works. This is the only known railroad bridge built by Omaha Steel Works, although this company did build several other highway bridges.
Built as a late depression era grade separation, the bridge features a few decorative features, and a stamp of the "Burlington Route" on the piers. At one time, the Rock Island had a similar structure immediately south of here. That bridge was removed prior to 1993.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in good condition, with no significant deterioration noted.
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.