The branch line connected the existing line to Aurora. By 1888, the railroad would be merged into a new company called the Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway.
The original intent of the railroad was to connect Joliet, Illinois to a point on the Mississippi River at East Dubuque, Illinois.
However, this never happened. Instead, the EJ&E became synonymous as a beltway around Chicago.
However, the line only became so profitable. Unfortunately, it was abandoned in 1977.
However, significant segments around Aurora survive as the Virgil Gilman Nature Trail.
02/06/22
Located in Aurora, this through girder bridge crosses River Street.
Built in 1926 to replace a similar bridge, this bridge features a single through plate girder span, set onto older stone abutments.
These types of bridges were commonly used to cross roads, as they are durable and are easy to construct.
Overall, the bridge appears to be in good condition. It currently serves the Virgil Gilman Trail.
The author has ranked the bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.