Henry Avenue Bridge
Henry Avenue Bridge is a historic concrete arch bridge spanning the Wissahickon Creek gorge in Philadelphia, carrying Henry Avenue between Roxborough and East Falls. The bridge is notable for its impressive height and Art Deco architectural elements.
History
[edit | edit source]The Henry Avenue Bridge was constructed in 1932 as part of the Henry Avenue highway project, which created a modern north-south arterial through Northwest Philadelphia. The bridge was designed to span the deep Wissahickon Valley and connect the Roxborough and Manayunk neighborhoods to East Falls and the rest of the city.[1]
The bridge stands approximately 130 feet above the Wissahickon Creek, making it one of the highest bridges in Philadelphia.
Design
[edit | edit source]The bridge features:
- Reinforced concrete arch construction
- Art Deco architectural details
- Multiple spans across the valley
- Pedestrian walkways with protective barriers
- Scenic overlooks of Wissahickon Valley
Location
[edit | edit source]The Henry Avenue Bridge connects:
- Henry Avenue in Roxborough (north)
- Henry Avenue in East Falls (south)
- Above Wissahickon Valley Park
- Near Wissahickon Transfer Center
Significance
[edit | edit source]The Henry Avenue Bridge is both a critical transportation link and an architectural landmark. Its height provides dramatic views of the Wissahickon Valley and Fairmount Park. The bridge carries significant traffic between Northwest Philadelphia neighborhoods and Center City.
Safety
[edit | edit source]Due to its height, the bridge has been the subject of safety enhancement efforts including the installation of barrier fencing along pedestrian walkways.
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- ↑ "Henry Avenue Bridge". Philadelphia History. Retrieved December 2025