Carleton Street Bridge
The Carleton Street Bridge, located in downtown Fredericton, is a former railway bridge that spanned the Saint John River. Known locally as the “Carleton Street Bridge” or “Carleton Bridge,” it was originally constructed to support both rail and road traffic, serving as a vital connection between the city’s north and south sides.
Here are some key details about the Carleton Street Bridge:
- Historical Significance: Built in 1885 as a railway bridge, the Carleton Street Bridge was initially intended to support the area’s growing transportation needs. It allowed trains to cross the river, bringing goods and passengers into Fredericton and connecting the city to other parts of New Brunswick.
- Conversion and Closure: Over time, the bridge adapted to include a roadway for vehicles, becoming a dual-purpose bridge. However, structural concerns and the building of new bridges, like the Westmorland Street Bridge, led to the eventual closing of the Carleton Street Bridge to traffic in the 1980s.
- Current Status: Since its closure to traffic, the Carleton Street Bridge remains unused and has not been converted to a pedestrian bridge like the nearby Bill Thorpe Walking Bridge. Although the bridge still stands, it has not been actively maintained, and there have been discussions over the years about its potential rehabilitation or removal due to safety and structural concerns.
- Cultural Landmark: Despite its closure, the Carleton Street Bridge holds nostalgic value for Fredericton residents. Its iron framework and historical architecture are reminiscent of the city’s past, and the bridge remains a distinctive feature on the Fredericton skyline, representing an era when rail travel was a major transportation mode.
While no longer functional, the Carleton Street Bridge is part of Fredericton’s heritage and symbolizes the city’s historical development along the Saint John River.
