This remarkable photo documented the demolition of the Commonwealth Boulevard Motor Parkway Bridge on July 24, 1942.
Enjoy,
Howard Kroplick
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Comments
Know they wanted the steel girders for WW2, but were also quick to remove the sloped roadway on both sides ( obvious at the west abutment, need for a ladder on the east side ). Great photo!
Based on the photo, the bridge before removal seems to have sat about 20ft below the power lines, power lines that were installed after the roadway was built. A safety violation today I believe, they had no choice but to remove her. What are your thoughts Brian?
Great zooms on the photo Howard!
Commonwealth Blvd under the bridge used to be called Clinton Ave in 1924, before construction of the Cross Island Parkway. The opening in the fence on the left is the approximate location where old Marvin Rd once traveled, connecting Clinton Av to Alley Rd (today’s Winchester Blvd). These are great photos recording history that has been lost in time.
Hi Frank - I’ve noticed with several of the past LIMP bridges in Queens that were built with RR specs, the abutments were constructed in a way that made them “step like”. A person could scale either side to reach the top. Authorities didn’t want anyone doing that. Besides the wires above, abutments became a hindrance & eyesore.
HI Howard, Does anybody know what year the Commonwealth Blvd Motor Pkwy bridge was built? I grew up in Glen Oaks in the 60’s and as a kid we used to ride our bicycles past the sole surviving eastern wall. I remember seeing a date ,but cant recall the numbers. Great stuff guys. Thanks,Gene Perry
Gene, according to the blog, the Commonwealth Blvd. Motor Parkway bridge was build in 1912.
https://www.vanderbiltcupraces.com/blog/article/long_island_motor_parkway_bridge_series_10_commonwealth_boulevard_bridge_in
Howard, The bridge over Commonwealth Blvd. shown in the photo dated 1942 is not the one built by the Motor Parkway in 1912. The bridge in the photo was built in 1931/1932. ( See correspondence between Borough President of Queens and the Parkway dated May 5, 1932)