The mighty Mississippi River is the second largest river in the United States, stretching from Minnesota down to the Gulf of Mexico. It is famous for its sheer size, as well as its role in American history, culture, and economics. One of its notable crossings is the Amtrak line which traverses the width of the river.
Geographic Details
The Mississippi River has a wide range of depths and widths, depending on the region it flows through. Where the Amtrak line crosses, the river is approximately a mile wide, with a depth of around 55 feet. In comparison, the river’s peak width is around 30 miles in its heartland regions, while its maximum depth is 200 feet around 10 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee.
Historical Significance
The Mississippi, with its numerous crossings and ferry lines, has long served as an essential transportation route for US citizens, dating back to the mid 1800s. Its myriad of crossings also served as vital trade and military roads during this period of rapid growth. By the end of the 19th century, it had become a major freight hauling route, spurring the development of settlements and industry along the river’s path.
Modern Use
Today the river still serves as a vital link for the transport of goods and passengers between cities along its banks. Amtrak’s crossing, located between St. Louis, Missouri and Memphis, Tennessee, has grown in importance due to the area’s increasing population. As of early 2020, the Amtrak line across the Mississippi River carries an average of ten thousand people every day between the two locations.
Commuter Experiences
For travelers, the Amtrak Mississippi River crossing is a one-of-a-kind experience unparalleled in the nation. The journey provides sightseers with breathtaking views of the mountain bluffs and greens of the Midwest. Those lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the incredible Mississippi delta can also enjoy mother nature’s amazing architecture created over the centuries by the mighty river.
Environmental Impact
While it has become a lauded avenue for trade today, the Mississippi’s tumultuous journey is not without its share of problems. The constant surge of water is eroding the land mass around its meandering turns, impacting the delicate eco-system of the region. Over the years, this has resulted in the destruction of thousands of acres of wetlands, exposing otherwise abundant wildlife to the hazardous by-products of human activity.
Safety Needs
Crossing the river is no easy task. Amtrak’s rigorous inspection procedures are put in place to guarantee the safety of every one of its passengers. During the journey, each train is equipped with advanced tracking technology to ensure that the onboard navigational systems are always up to date. Moreover, in-person tracking staff are required to stay with each train, checking the railbed and monitoring both the track and the water levels during crossings.
Economic Impact
The impact of Amtrak’s Mississippi River crossing goes beyond the personal commute. It serves as a critical trade portal for Midwest cities, allowing for the easy transport of goods between ports. The bridge also serves industries further afield, including the oil and gas industry, which often relies on the river for the transportation of materials. Without its convenient location, the economies of nearby towns and cities would be severely impacted, making it a crucial link between the West and the rest of America.
Rehabilitation Programs
The Amtrak Mississippi River crossing is not only a lifeline for commutes and trade. It is also a centerpiece for the conservation and rehabilitation of the river’s nearby wetland eco-systems, with the connection acting as an environmental education hub. School trips, in addition to public health and environmental projects, make use of the bridge to undertake various endeavors, while new volunteer programs are drawing in individuals from all walks of life, eager to help protect and restore the river’s natural habitats.
Industry Regulations
A key part of the Amtrak Mississippi River crossing is its adherence to industry guidelines and regulations. In order to maintain efficiency and safety, the railway company is subject to a set of strict protocols. All staff members, from those who inspect rail track beds to the engineers operating the locomotives, must hold certifications that prove their competency in their field. In addition, cargo personnel must also be regulated, to ensure that the contents of shipments are transported in a safe manner.
Engineering Requirements
As a bridge crossing a river with an average current of 2-3 knots, Amtrak’s bridge must be built to withstand high pressure and stress levels. This includes using structural steel and robust bridge designs, while ensuring a smooth ride across the river. Before undertaking any construction, engineers have to take into account multiple environmental factors, including the water levels, weather, and the area’s seismic activity, adding another layer of complexity to the project.
All in all, Amtrak’s Mississippi River crossing highlights the countless facets of the mighty river and its importance to the nation. From everyday commuters to heavy freight, the bridge serves as a connection between two of America’s heartland states, while its protection and rehabilitation programs solidify its legacy as a functional and environmental symbol of the United States.
