Robert Redden Footbridge

This former Central of Georgia Railway swing bridge crosses the Oostanaula River in downtown Rome. Standing at the point where the Oostanaula and the Etowah come together to form the Coosa River, the bridge once rotated on its central pier to allow steamboats to pass.

No longer used by the railroad, it has been preserved by Rome and Floyd County and converted to a pedestrian bridge. Now called the Robert Redden Foot Bridge, it is part of an extensive network of trails in the community. It has a unique designation as Georgia’s first rail-to-trails project. It was converted into a pedestrian bridge in 1976. It was subsequently named for Rome artist Robert Redden.

This bridge is a beautiful example of a traditionally composed railroad through truss swing bridge. For a swing bridge, the under bridge clearance is quite high. The design of the swing truss is that of two Pratt truss spans connected to a tower over the swing pier. The bridge includes through plate girder approach spans. There are caissons (sometimes called lally columns) supporting the swing span. The bridge remains today as an excellent example of adaptive reuse of historic railroad bridges. Aside from the removal of much of the original mechanical equipment (the bridge no longer swings) the bridge retains good historic integrity. The rectangular arrangement of lights on the side of the truss web is an American Flag which is lit up at night.

Offers great views of the convergence of Rome’s three rivers.  The bridge is often referred to as “The Lock Bridge” and is a popular engagement spot.

Location

• Located between Heritage Park and Bridgepoint Plaza
• Located on the ECO Greenway

Parking & Directions

Heritage Park: Enter Heritage Park Road from N. 2nd Ave NW (Note: You cannot access the park from Shorter Ave.) Park near the boat ramp and walk through the park to the top of the levee to access the bridge

Nearby Attractions

• Downtown Rome
• Myrtle Hill Cemetery