Located in Newton, this bridge carries the Iowa Interstate Railroad over 1st Street North next to the Newton Depot.
Reportedly built in 1915, the bridge consists of a main concrete encased beam span, approached by a slab span on either side. Utilizing decorative piers, the bridge follows an early art deco design.
The concrete encasement of beams is common, due to the high strength the beams give. By using a encased beam here, the center of the bridge can be a single span, instead of placing a pier in the roadway, as many bridges do.
It is unknown if the 1915 date is accurate, although it seems quite likely. In 1912, the nearby depot opened to traffic.
Overall, the bridge appears to be well maintained and in good condition, except for areas of cracking on the abutments.
The author has ranked this bridge as being locally significant, due to the common design.
The photo above is an overview.