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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Landmarks

Calvert Street Bridge / Duke Ellington Bridge Approach

A historic concrete arch bridge spanning Rock Creek, renamed in 1974 to honor the legendary jazz musician Duke Ellington.

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What is the Calvert Street Bridge known for?

Also known as the Duke Ellington Bridge, it is a historic reinforced-concrete bridge that carries Calvert Street NW over Rock Creek and Beach Drive in Washington, D.C.

When was the Duke Ellington Bridge built?

The current bridge was built in 1933 or 1935 and was later rehabilitated in 1992.

Why is it called the Duke Ellington Bridge?

Originally named the Calvert Street Bridge, it was renamed and rededicated in 1974 after the death of the famous Washington native and jazz band leader, Duke Ellington.

What is the architectural style of the bridge?

It is a triple-arched, closed-spandrel reinforced-concrete deck bridge faced with Indiana limestone. It was designed by architect Paul Cret and engineer Ralph Modjeski to harmonize with the nearby Taft Bridge.

Is there anything interesting about how it was constructed?

To maintain trolley service during construction, the previous 1891 steel truss bridge was moved 80 to 100 feet downstream on rollers using teams of horses, a feat that took between two and nine hours.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Duke Ellington Bridge, originally known as the Calvert Street Bridge, is a concrete closed-spandrel deck arch bridge that carries Calvert Street NW over Rock Creek and Beach Drive. Designed by architect Paul Cret and engineer Ralph Modjeski, the current structure was completed in 1935 to harmonize with the nearby Taft Bridge. It is a triple-arched reinforced-concrete bridge faced with Indiana limestone, which gives it a classic, enduring appearance. Historically, this span replaced a dramatic iron truss bridge from 1891 that carried streetcars across the creek. The transition between the old and new structures was a feat of early 20th-century engineering. During construction, the old steel truss spans were moved 80 to 100 feet north or downstream on rollers using teams of horses to ensure that trolley service to the northwest suburbs continued without interruption. This process caused only a minimal traffic interruption of about two hours. The bridge is documented by the Historic American Engineering Record, marking its recognized historic significance. In 1974, following the death of the Washington native and famous band leader, the structure was rededicated as the Duke Ellington Bridge. Today, it serves as a vital link for traffic crossing the deep valley of Rock Creek Park, rising high above the creek and the parkway below.

Visitor tips

  • Walk along the sidewalk to enjoy the view of the valley below.
  • Look for the Indiana limestone facing on the arches to see the architectural detail.
  • Allow a few minutes to read any signage regarding the bridge's namesake, Duke Ellington.
  • Be mindful of traffic on Calvert Street NW as you cross.

Nearby context

The bridge is located in the heart of Rock Creek Park, spanning the Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway and Beach Drive, connecting the city's northwest suburbs to the city center.

Sources

Evidence and links