Bridges are a captivating topic here in Virginia. Equal parts beautiful and functional, they provide a sense of place while also offering a very practical way of getting from here to there. From covered bridges scattered throughout the state to the famous Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, the Old Dominion is home to some truly remarkable crossings. And that brings us to today’s feature, the historic James River Bridge. Officially known as the CSX A-Line Bridge, this concrete bridge primarily functions as a railroad crossing over the James River. And yet this structure is truly iconic of Richmond itself. Here’s the history behind one of Virginia’s most beautiful bridges.

The James River Bridge is instantly recognizable if you've seen it before. Located between the Powhite Parkway and the Boulevard Bridge, this structure was built in 1919 and is iconic for its beautiful arches.
Taber Andrew Bain / flickr
The purpose of the double-track concrete bridge was to provide quick access around Richmond for both passenger and freight trains, and it's still in use today.
Kwhopson / Wikipedia
The James River Bridge can be appreciated from various points in Richmond. There's a fascinating aspect of this beautiful work of art and one which can be keenly appreciated if you happen to float or paddle underneath it.
Taber Andrew Bain / flickr

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Look closely and you'll notice the remains of another historic bridge: the RF&P Bridge. Its stone remains can still be seen in the water under the James River Bridge today.
Taber Andrew Bain / flickr
The RF&P, short for Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Potomac Railroad Bridge, was built in 1891 and was torn down 30 years later.
Another fascinating aspect of the James River Bridge is that it was among the earliest of its kind to rely so heavily on poured concrete. Earlier bridges were mostly made of heavy wood, iron, or stone. Concrete wasn't used for bridges until the early 1900s.
Kevin Kelley / flickr
Even if you didn't know the fascinating history behind this CSX A-Line bridge, you'd likely still be captivated by its incredible architecture and the way it so beautifully frames the water below.
Jim_McGlone / flickr

Have you ever seen the James River Bridge in Richmond? What did you think? We’d love to hear all about your experiences in the comments below.

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