East Washington Avenue Bridge 🇺🇸

When you visit Bridgeport, Connecticut, you can cross the Pequonnock River via the historic East Washington Avenue Bridge crossing. This span links an area once known as Pembroke—a prosperous agricultural community dating to the 1650s—with the former village of Newfield. The river crossing has a rich local history that began with an initial toll bridge built in 1836 after public opposition altered its original location.

Over the decades, the crossing evolved through several designs, including an 184-foot cantilever through truss swing bridge that carried early trolley lines, followed by a movable Strauss underneath-counterweight deck-girder bascule bridge completed in 1925. Today, you can see the modern bascule bridge that replaced the older structure in 1998. As you cross, take note of the upgraded railings alongside the restored original operator's house and connected public toilet building from the 1920s era.

While the modern bridge's superstructure and deck have been rated in good condition, city officials note that the bridge now rarely opens to accommodate passing marine traffic. It stands as a fascinating testament to centuries of local transportation history.

What to see at East Washington Avenue Bridge

• Crosses the historic Pequonnock River site established in 1836
• Features a modern 1998 bascule bridge replacement
• Includes a restored 1920s operator's house and public toilet building
• Connects historic Bridgeport areas formerly known as Pembroke and Newfield

Visiting tips

Keep in mind that while this is an active bridge crossing, it rarely opens for marine traffic.

How long: 30-45 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

East Washington Avenue Bridge is easy to reach on Bridgeport’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo and Barnum Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Bridgeport travel guide.