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This bridge has a pretty cool history, but I have to say that its current name is far more catchy than any of its previous titles. The Purple People Bridge now exists as a pedestrian only bridge connecting Ohio to Kentucky over the Ohio River. However, it was as recent as 2003 that the bridge became what it is today. Prior to 2003, you can trace the bridge's history back to 1872 when it was Cincinnati's first railroad bridge to cross the Ohio River. At that point in history is was called the Newport and Cincinnati Bridge.
Eventually, the bridge became accessible to streetcars, pedestrians and automobiles. In 1904, the bridge took on a new title-the L&N Railroad Bridge. For the next 83 years, the bridge continued to serve this purpose until it was closed to railroad traffic in 1987. And then in 2001 it became closed to vehicular traffic as well. Fortunately, it was restored and reopened in 2003 with a new coat of purple paint and a new purpose! It now serves as a connecting piece between downtown Cincinnati and all of its stadiums along the riverfront, and Newport's restaurants and entertainment. I absolutely love walking this bridge because it is always full of people, it makes a lot of places more accessible and it just has the perfect name.
The fact that it is only accessible to pedestrians is also really cool because it allows for opportunities to use the bridge for events as well! Anything from awareness events for women's health; races and triathlons; and even weddings! The Purple People bridge is made to be used by people and it certainly serves its purpose well! And did I mention it has a great view of the city? I love it:
