If any of you are interested in the trials and tribulations of
operating barge tows (an interesting name since they're actually
shoved) thru narrow bridges and tricky currents, you might want to
check out "Uncommon Carriers" by John McPhee. It's a collection of
essays about transportation; tow boat operator, running a unit coal
train, independent truckers, and even how UPS sorts packages, all
written in a clear and lively style. The section on tow boats covers
the Illinois River and specifically about trying to fit under the
former C&NW bridge at Pekin IL. It's a darn good read, written by an
author with enough talent to make an article about drying paint
interesting.
Thank you kindly,
Michael Matalis
mmatalis@sprynet.com
See my photos and my ugly mug at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/prairierailfan/
On Apr 25, 2009, at 11:54 PM, Kenneth Martin wrote:
> I would say it is horizontal clearance not vertical, checking a
> drawing at LOC it says the swing span is 365' now so the lift span
> will
> be shorter but without the center pivot it will have more clearance.
>
> The problem with the bridge is when it is open it is not aligned with
> the current. This was not a problem when steamboats were the main
> traffic on the river but now with 12-15 barges being pushed by a
> tugboat
> it is difficult to turn the barges and keep them aligned with the
> bridge
> because you are pushing across the current. The wider lift span will
> make it easier for the barges to go through the bridge.
>
> For the drawing of the bridge go to:
> http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/collections/habs_haer/
> search collection for "Nebraska City Bridge", click on Nebraska City
> Bridge, click on drawings.
>
> Ken Martin
> former Burlington resident
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