Route 66 once played a major role in New Mexico’s economy and way of life. Today, you can still find fascinating landmarks that give you a glimpse into life decades ago. The Rio Puerco Bridge, located outside of Albuquerque, is one of these historic landmarks.

As you drive down the Nine Mile Hill, outside of Albuquerque and into the Rio Puerco Valley, you’ll find the Rio Puerco Bridge.
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This bridge was once part of Route 66 and allowed travelers to easily cross the Rio Puerco River.
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The Rio Puerco River is known for flooding and erosion, which made building a bridge that could withstand many harsh elements a challenge.
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The State Highway Department chose the unique Parker Truss Bridge design, due to its ability to easily withstand heavy flooding. Funding for the bridge was available in 1932 and the bridge was built in 1933. While the bridge stood tall, in 1957, the truss was remodeled. This upgrade created higher clearance on the bridge and made it easier for various vehicles to drive over it.

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The Rio Puerco Bridge is 250-feet-long, making it is the longest single span steel truss bridge to be built in New Mexico.
Daniel Stober/Google
When Interstate 40 was constructed, the Rio Puerco Bridge became used as a frontage road, rather than a main roadway. In 1997, the bridge was listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
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Today, the Rio Puerco Bridge is still standing. It is closed to all vehicles, but you can walk across the bridge and experience a small piece of history.
Max Schwaber/Google

Have you ever walked across the Rio Puerco Bridge? What did you think of this historic bridge? We’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments.

For another incredible bridge in New Mexico, visit the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, the tallest bridge in New Mexico.

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Rio Puerco, New Mexico 87028, USA