THE BIG OPENING

Metro North's New Haven line has several draw bridges of different but long ages. The Walk bridge in South Norwalk CT is oldest, having been erected in 1897. It also the only four track swing bridge in the world. Due to the bridge's age and deferred maintenance during the 1960's and 1970's the bridge can, on occasion not close after opening. By law the bridge has to be able to open for boat traffic, but that has cause difficulties for train traffic on the New Haven when the bridge has been stuck open.
On Friday June Sixth the Walk bridge in South Norwalk was not able to close just before the evening rush hour, stranding thousands of Metro North commuters for several hours. As this was the second time that the bridge was unable to close in two weeks, Metro North made the decision to close the bridge until repairs could be made. This stranded several private sailboats above the bridge, so Metro North had special opening for the boats. I went down and shot the opening.