[citation needed] In 1818, a wooden bridge was built across the Monongahela by Louis Wernwag at the cost of $102,000.

The bridge also served the Pittsburgh Railways streetcar system with lines coming from the Mt.

Officials considered lobbying by the Pittsburgh History and Landmarks Foundation on preserving the bridge.

In 1994–1995 the bridge was rehabilitated with a new deck, a colorful paint scheme, and architectural lighting.

The bridge connects Smithfield Street in Downtown Pittsburgh with Station Square.