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

Kutz Memorial Bridge

A historic multi-span plate girder bridge designed by Paul Philippe Cret, crossing the northern point of the Tidal Basin and carrying eastbound traffic on Independence Avenue SW.

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Kutz Memorial Bridge
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Where is the Kutz Memorial Bridge located?

The bridge carries eastbound traffic on Independence Avenue SW over the northern point of the Tidal Basin.

What is the bridge known for?

It is known for providing pedestrians with a great view of the Tidal Basin, though traffic on the bridge can sometimes impair the enjoyment of the view.

Who designed and built the Kutz Memorial Bridge?

The bridge was designed by architect Paul Philippe Cret in 1941 and constructed by the Alexander & Repass Company.

When was the bridge completed?

The bridge was completed in 1943 and later dedicated in 1954 following alterations.

Who was the bridge named after?

It was named after Brigadier General Charles W. Kutz, who served as Washington's Commissioner of Engineering during the first half of the 20th century.

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 Kutz Memorial Bridge is a multi-span plate girder bridge that carries eastbound traffic on Independence Avenue SW across the northern point of the Tidal Basin. Designed by architect Paul Philippe Cret in 1941, the structure was constructed by the Alexander & Repass Company and completed in 1943. Following a series of alterations, the bridge was officially dedicated in 1954. Beyond its engineering, the bridge is a site of significant social history. It was built by African-American engineer Archie Alphonso Alexander and his partner Maurice Repass. In a bold move for the 1940s, Alexander and Repass refused to racially segregate the work site, hiring both African-American and white laborers to work side-by-side. Under the supervision of Brigadier General Charles W. Kutz, who served as Washington's Commissioner of Engineering during the first half of the 20th century, the bridge was named in his honor. The span serves as a vital link in the National Capital Parks system, providing a critical crossing over the water. Today, the bridge offers pedestrians a great view of the Tidal Basin, though the experience is often shared with the noise and presence of eastbound traffic. Just east of the bridge, visitors can find the Floral Library, a seasonal floral display designed by landscape architect Darwina Neal in 1969.

Visitor tips

  • Be cautious of eastbound traffic on Independence Avenue SW while enjoying the views of the Tidal Basin.
  • Walk east from the bridge to visit the Floral Library's seasonal displays.
  • Allow a few minutes to appreciate the architectural details of the plate girder design.

Nearby context

The bridge spans the northern point of the The Tidal Basin, connecting the surrounding National Capital Parks. To the east, it is situated near the Floral Library, a quarter-acre seasonal floral display.

Sources

Evidence and links