In 1870, the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad completed the Parkersburg Bridge (CSX) across the river; at 7,140 feet (2,180 m), it was reportedly the longest in the world.

For a considerable period of time, travelers had to go by steamboat to connect between Marietta and Parkersburg, Virginia; the latter received service from the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad in 1857.

From 1868–1870, the B&O built the Parkersburg Bridge (CSX) between West Virginia and Belpre, on its main line to St. Louis, Missouri.

Designed by Jacob Linville, when completed in 1870 the bridge was reportedly the longest in the world at 7,140 feet (2,180 m).

[9] The bridge attracted more trade to the town, enabled shipping Ohio coal to the East Coast, and improved access on both sides of the river.

Developing in a different pattern from the more industrial cities of eastern Ohio, Belpre reached its peak of population in 1980.

[11] The climate in this area is characterized by relatively high temperatures and evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year.

[12] As of the 2010 United States Census, there were 6,441 people, 3,053 households, and 1,788 families in the city.

35.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

32.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 14.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.