There are several bridges across Rock Creek, but some stand stand above the rest. Here are a few of those bridges connecting neighborhoods across the natural barrier.
The William Howard Taft Bridge was originally named the Connecticut Avenue Bridge when it was built in 1907. This was renamed in 1931 after the 27th President and Supreme Court Justice. Nicknamed the million dollar bridge due to its high cost (though not actually a million dollars) this was an architectural feat at the time due to its size and the amount of concrete used. Four lions "protect" the bridge at the two entrances of Connecticut Avenue NW.
The Duke Ellington Bridge built in 1935 was originally named the Calvert Street Bridge before being renamed after the D.C. jazz legend in 1974. This arched concrete bridge replaced an 1891 built steel deck truss bridge that carried streetcars across Rock Creek. To replace the existing bridge while ensuring its usability during construction, the steel truss spans were moved 80 feet north on rollers with the help of horses pulling the weight. This resulted in a mere two hour window with no traffic.
The Dumbarton Bridge was built in 1915 with concrete arches to resemble a Roman aqueduct. This carries Q Street NW from Georgetown to Massachusetts Avenue NW. Unique to the bridge is four bronze bisons at the corners designed by Alexander Phimister Proctor.
