Ex-SCL bridge on LIRR

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We have a letter asking us about a rolling lift bridge on the Long Island RR at Reynolds Channel, NY. The writer says it reportedly came from the SCL somewhere in Florida, and he wants to know the original SCL location and when it was moved. I seem to vaguely remember this story but don't recall any details. Can anyone help with the details, and also any photos of it at the original SCL location?

-- Larry Goolsby (clgoolsby@att.net), January 03, 2004

Answers

The Placida drawbridge on the ex SAL line to Boca grande was purchased by Chicago Bridge and Iron in 1980 on the behalf of the Long Island Rail Road. This drawbridge was originally funded by the Federal Government and when the rail line was abandoned, the bridge was listed as being available for future use by other federally funded projects. This bridge was removed by barge, refurbished in New Orleans and then moved to Long Island. It was installed as part of a project where the existing navigation channel-known as "Wreck lead" was abandoned and replaced with a newly dredged channel in the middle of Reynold's Channel. It was the center piece of a 1500 foot trestle. The overall project cost $31,200,000.00 My colleagues at the Long Island Rail Road provided me with the answer.

-- Michael W. Savchak (Savchak@mnr.org), January 06, 2004.

I am pretty sure that it was the said Boca Grande bridge. It was removed from its original site by barge, rehabilitated and then installed on the LIRR Long Beach Branch. I am getting confirmation from my colleagues at the LIRR.

-- Michael W. Savchak (Savchak@mnr.org), January 05, 2004.

The Boca Grade bridge was relocated to Long Island. I don't recall the date.

-- Michael Mulligan (trainfam4@cs.com), January 05, 2004.

When SCL service ended on the ex-SAL (nee-Charlotte Harbor and Northern) branch to Boca Grande in the 1970's, the bridge was removed and barged off somewhere. I'll see if I can track down more info tomorrow. Bill Donahue

-- Bill Donahue (BillyDee53@aol.com), January 04, 2004.

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