Gillis Bridge

There’s plenty to see at the Gillis Bridge, which crosses the Merrimack River via US-​1 between Newburyport and Salisbury, Massachusetts. (see photos) While the bridge itself provides good service to vehicular traffic, it’s pedestrian access leaves much to be desired. Constructed in 1976, the bridge was named after gas station owner, Andrew Jackson «Bossy» Gillis, who served several (not always consecutive) terms as Mayor of Newburyport from the 1920’s to 1960.
A network of bike trails converge at the Gillis Bridge. The East Cost Greenway is like the I-​95 of bike trails, connecting (at least on paper) the Canadian border at Calais, Maine, with Key West, Florida. In addition, the Old Eastern Marsh Trail, the Newburyport Harborwalk Rail Trail and the Clipper City Rail Trail all connect to the bridge. An upcoming construction project in 2011 on the Salisbury side will add a pathway under the bridge as an alternative to crossing busy 4-​lane US-​1.
Unfortunately, there’s only one narrow sidewalk on the Eastern side of the bridge, and walking across the draw span is a little spooky. But there are interesting parks at either side of the Gillis Bridge that are worth visiting.
On the Salisbury Side, informative signs tell the history of rail and road bridges at this location on the Merrimack River. An abandoned railroad bridge remains relatively intact, parallel to the Gillis Bridge. It would be nice if someday the rail bridge could be used for the trailway, but it would be expensive to implement because it’s swing span would need to be operable.
On the Newburyport side, there are lovely little «park areas» along the pathways, with interesting sculpture and other artwork to enjoy. One of the nicest features are the most comfortable park benches I’ve ever seen! They’re sort of like recliners, and have extra little things to put your feet up on and relax while taking in spectacular views of the Merrimack River.
Better pedestrian access over the bridge would give it at least another star. But even as it is, the Gillis Bridge is a very nice place to stop and enjoy a bit of Massachusetts history with riparian entertainment.