As with other conveniences of civilization in the new settlements in Kent County, the means for crossing rivers developed more permanence over time. At the beginning of the 19th century, individuals kept canoes or rafts, forded shallow areas by foot, or built semi-permanent foot bridges in low water areas as the seasons allowed. Wagons and teams crossed at will on the frozen ice during the winter months. Some forded during other seasons in areas of low water, others crossed by ferry. Ferry St. between Pearl St. and Fulton St. was the location of an early ferry landing on the East side, with the West side landing almost directly opposite.

The first real river bridge in the county was built in Ada in 1844, paid for with State funds. Efforts to construct a free bridge in Grand Rapids began with a meeting in February 1842. A foot bridge was constructed near Bridge St., and the Supervisors of Kent County were given authority to build the first real bridge across the Grand River in Grand Rapids. The stone was completed August 9, 1845, and the bridge was finished November 27. A separate bridge across the canal was also completed then. This bridge lasted only about 7 years. The second bridge, a shingle roofed lattice bridge, was built in 1852 at the same location. This bridge was a toll bridge. It burnt in April 1858 and a replacement toll covered bridge was constructed by September. The toll was not ended until 1874 when it was purchased by the City. It was replaced by a wrought iron bridge in 1884, and then by a new cement bridge during the early part of the 20th century. By that time, there were several other bridges along the Grand River at Grand Rapids.

The other early bridges included the:

Leonard St. Bridge, a toll bridge completed October 21, 1858, and made free in 1873 when purchased by the City. Seven stone piers, truss pattern with shingled roof.

Pearl St. Bridge, completed November 25, 1858. Truss on massive stone abutements. This one crossed the island still part of the river at that time. It was also a toll bridge until purchased by the City in 1873. It was replaced in 1886.

Fulton St. Bridge, wrought iron with high trusses was built in 1885.

Sixth St. Bridge, at Newberry St, was also started in 1885, and was wrought iron with high trusses.

Also, the Canal St. Gravel Road Co. Bridge was built in 1884, crossing near the Soldier’s Home.

Separate bridges for railroads were also constructed beginning with wooden bridges in 1857 and then iron. They were lower, and a couple were destroyed or damaged by the July 1883 flood.

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