Pierre railroad bridge: Undefeated in decades-long standoff with trucks, RVs

Viaduct becomes community favorite as it defends Pierre Street from large vehicles

The infamous Pierre railroad bridge. (Austin Goss/The Dakota Scout)

PIERRE – In 1907, the Chicago and North Western Railroad Co. finished its 2,200 foot long swing bridge connecting Fort Pierre and Pierre, providing the first permanent Missouri River rail crossing in central South Dakota linking East River and West River. 

Around that same time, a few miles to the east, construction was beginning on another bridge in Pierre as well. Far less grand, this one didn’t cross a major body of water or revolutionize transportation in the region. Its advent was not likely celebrated in the same way, especially in a state where the use of cars was still limited. 

While this bridge’s role in South Dakota’s development was minimal, its legacy of low clearance and high drama has left a lasting mark on the capital city and beyond.

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