The Grand Ave. bridge, which spans the Quinnipiac River, is located in a neighborhood of New Haven, CT known s “Fair Haven”.
Brief history of the bridge:
1791 – First wood and stone draw bridge was constructed. The draw was lifted by oxen. It was known as the Dragon Bridge because, at that time, Dragon was the term used for what we now call Fair Haven. Fair Haven is located approx. 2 miles east of the downtown New Haven green.
1860 – A new drawbridge was constructed with pedestrian sidewalks.
1896 – Steel swing bridge constructed by Berlin Iron Bridge Company of Berlin, CT. It’s dimensions were 427′ x 50′.
1980’s – A new replica of the 1896 bridge was constructed.
If you look closely you can see the facilities high and center for the bridge operator. It’s his/her responsibility to communicate with approaching boats and ensure the safe swing and locking of the bridge. In addition they routinely inspect the bridge for any potential safety issues.
This bridge is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.
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