This large single span Warren Through Truss is the middle crossing of Bulger Creek.
This design was commonly constructed between 1900 and 1905. However, this may not be the original location of the bridge.
An identical structure was once located nearby at Ashworth Park in Des Moines. This bridge was replaced in 2017. However, IAIS recorded that identical bridge having been relocated to that location in the 1940s.
The Rock Island relocated miles of track in eastern Iowa during the 1940s. It is believed that several 6-panel riveted Warren Through Trusses, such as this one were relocated from the area.
A date of 1944 is painted on the truss. A majority of the new alignments in eastern Iowa opened between 1943 and 1945. Unfortunately, information on this bridge may not be easy to find. Rock Island records have been notoriously difficult to find.
With this unique truss, the bridge is set onto concrete substructures, which also appear to date to 1944.
Overall, the bridge remains in good condition. Unfortunately, Iowa Interstate has designated this bridge (and every truss along their route) as needing replacement.
While from an operational standpoint, the author understands how the bridges are bottlenecks; the author hopes that IAIS becomes more aware of the history they own, and find a way to sell these trusses to be reused as trails or smaller railroads.
The author has ranked the bridge as being moderately significant, due to the unique history of the bridge, the truss design and the doomed status.
The photo above is looking east along the bridge. The land surrounding the bridge is private property and should be respected.