Government Bridge: A Historic Mississippi River Crossing
Spanning the Mississippi, the Government Bridge links Iowa and Illinois with a unique swing span and rich history. A landmark of engineering!
The Government Bridge stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and the vital role of transportation across the Mississippi River. Officially opened in 1896, this double-decked steel truss swing bridge is the fourth iteration to occupy this location, each serving to improve upon its predecessor. It connects Davenport, Iowa, with the Rock Island Arsenal, a U.S. Army facility on Arsenal Island. The bridge's design is a marvel, with the upper deck accommodating two railway lines and the lower level providing lanes for vehicular traffic, along with dedicated spaces for pedestrians and cyclists. Its most distinctive feature is the swing span, capable of rotating a full 360 degrees to allow the passage of river traffic. This complex mechanism highlights the bridge's importance in facilitating both land and water transportation. The bridge's history is intertwined with the development of the region. The first bridge at this location, built in 1856, was the first railroad bridge to span the Mississippi River. This groundbreaking structure aimed to connect the eastern U.S. with the expanding West, but it faced opposition from steamboat companies concerned about its impact on river trade. Over time, that original bridge was replaced to accommodate heavier trains and increased traffic. The current Government Bridge was designed by Ralph Modjeski, and it was his first major commission. Today, the Government Bridge continues to serve as a crucial link between Iowa and Illinois, carrying thousands of vehicles, trains, pedestrians, and cyclists each day. It is a contributing structure to the Rock Island Arsenal National Historic District.
Local tips
- Take a walk or bike ride across the bridge to enjoy scenic views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding Quad Cities.
- Visit Schwiebert Riverfront Park in Rock Island or LeClaire Park in Davenport for easy access and parking when visiting the bridge.
- Check out the bridge's swing span operation schedule to witness its unique 360-degree rotation for river traffic.
A brief summary to Government Bridge
- Davenport, Iowa, 52801, US
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Davenport, head east along the Riverfront Trail towards the bridge. The walk is approximately 20 minutes, offering scenic views of the Mississippi River. Follow the signs for the bike path, which will lead you directly to the bridge. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
MetroLINK bus routes 1 and 5 connect through Davenport and serve the area near the Government Bridge. Check the MetroLINK schedule for the most accurate timings and designated stops. From the nearest bus stop, it's a short walk to the bridge. A single fare for MetroLINK is typically around $1.00 - $1.25.
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Driving
From downtown Davenport, follow W 2nd St and merge onto I-74 N. Take exit 1C for US-61 N towards I-280. Continue on US-61 N and take the exit toward 53rd St/Downtown. Follow signs for Government Bridge. Parking is available nearby, with hourly rates typically ranging from $1 to $2 for a few hours. The Redstone Ramp at 101 Main St offers hourly parking.
