The People’s Bridge

Built to pre-automobile specifications before the turn of the 20th century, the People’s Bridge later became known as "Old Shakey" because the cast-iron superstructure vibrated noisily under increasing traffic. After being severely weakened by the Hurricane Agnes Flood in 1972, it was closed to all but pedestrian and bicycle traffic. A major ice flood in January 1996 destroyed three western spans, and the public response led to the creation of the People’s Bridge Coalition and a campaign to restore and preserve the bridge. In 1998, the eastern span was fully restored, and plans were established to restore the western span to its historic appearance. The bridge remains a vital and heavily used link between Harrisburg’s Riverfront Park and City Island.

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania · United States