What is the most iconic bridge in each metro area across the US (and Canada)?
Some are obvious, like the Golden Gate. Others are a bit more ambiguous. Eventually, I want to get at least the top 100 metros across the US, and maybe one for each state as well.
I'll start with Rochester, NY: I-490 over the Genesee River (https://www.google.com/maps/@43.1462054,-77.6107902,3a,15y,16.53h,92.81t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipNugTdcWzd9T5OyzSNTvvUTyDhLgXIXOpKeAkR4!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipNugTdcWzd9T5OyzSNTvvUTyDhLgXIXOpKeAkR4%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi-0-ya120.97009-ro-0-fo100!7i7168!8i3584!5m1!1e1).
Boston: Zakim Bridge
Syracuse, NY: I-690 viaduct.
Milwaukee: The new 6th St. viaduct.
Denver isn't really known for water. So I'll nominate the former Gates Rubber Factory Bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@39.7213339,-105.0087712,3a,75y,190.76h,91.25t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1srVcWfzx-ijgwwsHIsUDzgg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) that attaches to I-25.
Chris
Detroit: Ambassador
For Chicago, probably the Lake Shore Drive bridge over the Chicago River. The Skyway is probably best known by name, but the image of the LSD bridge probably registers with more people.
In Richmond, how about the CSXT Acca Bridge carrying the former Atlantic Coast Line (now CSXT's North End Subdivision) across the James River. A majestic view of the Acca Bridge was created after the construction of the Powhite Parkway in the early 1970s. To make things confusing, the other Acca Bridge is a 6-lane highway bridge carrying Westwood Avenue/Saunders Avenue (VA-197) over these same tracks at east end of Acca Yard (which is actually CSXT former Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac on the west leg of the wye).
https://www.flickr.com/photos/83399266@N02/38128968532
If you're looking solely within the metropolitan area, I'd say the I-64 Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel, but otherwise the US-13 Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel connecting region to the Eastern Shore.
Quote from: Flint1979 on February 21, 2021, 04:10:47 PM
Detroit: Ambassador
Not for long!
Quote from: sprjus4 on February 21, 2021, 05:35:28 PM
If you're looking solely within the metropolitan area, I'd say the I-64 Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel, but otherwise the US-13 Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel connecting region to the Eastern Shore.
I would say that Norfolk/Hampton Roads are NOT the same metro area, as would this Wikipedia article, who cites the census Bureau (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statistical_area_(United_States)). Norfolk is number 37, and Richmond is number 49.
Anyway, I nominate Oklahoma City! And it would be the pedestrian bridge with that thing on top. Anyone who lives there knows about it, most don't know what it is meant to be. At least from who I have talked to. It was supposed to be the state bird, but I can't see it, lol.
And, for the Colorado Springs metro area, I would say the Royal Gorge Bridge. Although not technically in the metro area, it is not in its own metro area either, unlike the HRBT and CBBT example above.
Probably the 1941 Lanes Bridge in Fresno would be the closest thing. The San Joaquin River Viaduct will likely be pretty notable when it's competed, it's more infamous right now.
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 21, 2021, 06:17:30 PM
Probably the 1941 Lanes Bridge in Fresno would be the closest thing. The San Joaquin River Viaduct will likely be pretty notable when it's competed, it's more infamous right now.
Glad CA is actually taking the plunge into HSR. I just hope they do it right, as if they exicute it properly, it might encourage other states to follow suit.
Quote from: MCRoads on February 21, 2021, 06:12:43 PM
Quote from: Flint1979 on February 21, 2021, 04:10:47 PM
Detroit: Ambassador
Not for long!
Quote from: sprjus4 on February 21, 2021, 05:35:28 PM
If you're looking solely within the metropolitan area, I'd say the I-64 Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel, but otherwise the US-13 Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel connecting region to the Eastern Shore.
I would say that Norfolk/Hampton Roads are NOT the same metro area, as would this Wikipedia article, who cites the census Bureau (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statistical_area_(United_States)). Norfolk is number 37, and Richmond is number 49.
Anyway, I nominate Oklahoma City! And it would be the pedestrian bridge with that thing on top. Anyone who lives there knows about it, most don't know what it is meant to be. At least from who I have talked to. It was supposed to be the state bird, but I can't see it, lol.
And, for the Colorado Springs metro area, I would say the Royal Gorge Bridge. Although not technically in the metro area, it is not in its own metro area either, unlike the HRBT and CBBT example above.
Doesn't matter if it's not for long, it's a current bridge and is by far the most iconic bridge in Metro Detroit.
For Toledo, is it the Glass City Skyway or the Anthony Wayne Bridge?
It's probably the Fred Hartman Bridge on SH-146 for Houston, although the new ship channel bridge on Beltway 8 will eventually top it.
Saginaw: Zilwaukee Bridge
Mackinaw City and St. Ignace: Ma ... aw, never mind.
We're not exactly known for our bridges in Salt Lake.
Maybe the Davis County Causeway out to Antelope Island? Granted there are only a couple short sections where the road is actually on a bridge, but at least it crosses a lot of water.
Quote from: GaryV on February 21, 2021, 06:47:54 PM
Saginaw: Zilwaukee Bridge
Mackinaw City and St. Ignace: Ma ... aw, never mind.
LOL thanks for supporting my hometown.
Quote from: MCRoads on February 21, 2021, 06:21:22 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 21, 2021, 06:17:30 PM
Probably the 1941 Lanes Bridge in Fresno would be the closest thing. The San Joaquin River Viaduct will likely be pretty notable when it's competed, it's more infamous right now.
Glad CA is actually taking the plunge into HSR. I just hope they do it right, as if they exicute it properly, it might encourage other states to follow suit.
Well...I don't think it's going to pan out. The current segment being built is largely funded by Federal Grants, got behind schedule and went way over budget. Apparently the back up plan if the other segments of the HSR don't get constructed is to convert the present segment to a new Amtrak Line. Considering how bungled it was and how much of the City of Fresno got torn down for the line it's not looking like it was a wise investment.
Wilmington is without a doubt the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge. Well, that's kind of obvious considering it's the only bridge that's both distinct and significant in the area.
Considering 295 in the area of it is a by-pass of Richmond, meant for long-distance traffic instead of locals, I wonder if the Varina-Enon bridge is seen as an iconic bridge in the Richmond area.
Quote from: MCRoads on February 21, 2021, 06:12:43 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on February 21, 2021, 05:35:28 PM
If you're looking solely within the metropolitan area, I'd say the I-64 Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel, but otherwise the US-13 Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel connecting region to the Eastern Shore.
I would say that Norfolk/Hampton Roads are NOT the same metro area, as would this Wikipedia article, who cites the census Bureau (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statistical_area_(United_States)). Norfolk is number 37, and Richmond is number 49.
Err, both of the bridges that sprjus mentioned are around the area of the Hampton Roads (the CBBT is in it on only one end) and Norfolk is a pretty integral part of the Hampton Roads area. Where'd Richmond come from?
Northern Indiana: Cline Avenue Bridge?
Evansville: The New I-69 Bridge?
Louisville: Lewis and Clark Bridge (Cable-stayed)
For Philadelphia...the Ben Franklin Bridge, I think pretty easily.
But for Pittsburgh? The combination of the Ft Pitt and Ft Duquesne Bridges?
Washington DC: Arlington Memorial Bridge?
Quote from: index on February 21, 2021, 07:12:22 PM
Quote from: MCRoads on February 21, 2021, 06:12:43 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on February 21, 2021, 05:35:28 PM
If you're looking solely within the metropolitan area, I'd say the I-64 Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel, but otherwise the US-13 Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel connecting region to the Eastern Shore.
I would say that Norfolk/Hampton Roads are NOT the same metro area, as would this Wikipedia article, who cites the census Bureau (https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Statistical_area_(United_States)). Norfolk is number 37, and Richmond is number 49.
Err, both of the bridges that sprjus mentioned are around the area of the Hampton Roads (the CBBT is in it on only one end) and Norfolk is a pretty integral part of the Hampton Roads area. Where'd Richmond come from?
Oopsie, that was a typo. I meant to say that Norfolk/Hampton Roads AND Richmond aren’t the same Mateo area. I realize now that he may not have been replying to the post above, but I thought he may have been talking about the most notable bridge in Richmond, as he didn’t say he was talking about Norfolk, and then being so close together, I can see someone assuming they are the same metro area.
Reno NV: The old Virginia Street Bridge over the Truckee River (https://www.nps.gov/nr/travel/nevada/vir.htm), which stood for 110 years, 1905-2015, and carried US 395 before any freeways were built.
Women who came to Reno for quickie divorces supposedly had a tradition of going to that bridge after the divorce was granted and chucking their wedding ring over the side into the river. Marilyn Monroe's friend tried to persuade Marilyn to do that in a scene in The Misfits but Marilyn decided they should just go for a drink instead.
With old age and the need to improve the flow of the Truckee in flood conditions, the bridge was finally replaced with a modern structure in 2015-2016 (https://qdconstruction.com/projects/virginia-street-bridge-replacement/).
If you're requiring something that's currently standing, it's probably the Galena Creek Bridge (http://www.hatchertechnical.com/galena-creek-bridge.html) that opened to traffic in 2012 and carries I-580/US 395.
Hartford: The Bulkeley Bridge, although I would nominate the Bushnell Arch if the Park River were not buried underground. If you want to get out in the sticks, I'll include the Cornwall Covered Bridge.
New Haven: The Pearl Harbor Memorial ("Q") Bridge.
Providence: The Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge
Minneapolis: Stone Arch Bridge (former railway/current ped crossing on the Mississippi)
St. Paul: High Bridge (MN 149/Smith Ave over the Mississippi)
Duluth: Aerial Lift Bridge (Lake Avenue crossing the Duluth shipping canal)
Austin-Congress Avenue Bat Bridge
Quote from: jayhawkco on February 21, 2021, 03:59:51 PM
Denver isn't really known for water. So I'll nominate the former Gates Rubber Factory Bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@39.7213339,-105.0087712,3a,75y,190.76h,91.25t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1srVcWfzx-ijgwwsHIsUDzgg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) that attaches to I-25.
Chris
i was going to say the speer blvd viaduct
Quote from: Great Lakes Roads on February 21, 2021, 07:40:38 PM
Northern Indiana: Cline Avenue Bridge?
Evansville: The New I-69 Bridge?
Louisville: Lewis and Clark Bridge (Cable-stayed)
The most iconic bridge in Indiana is not actually a bridge--the I-65 overpass over IN 46 at Columbus.
Quote from: cabiness42 on February 22, 2021, 08:22:39 AM
Quote from: Great Lakes Roads on February 21, 2021, 07:40:38 PM
Northern Indiana: Cline Avenue Bridge?
Evansville: The New I-69 Bridge?
Louisville: Lewis and Clark Bridge (Cable-stayed)
The most iconic bridge in Indiana is not actually a bridge--the I-65 overpass over IN 46 at Columbus.
That's the most iconic bridge in Indiana? It looks the same as the I-94 bridge over Telegraph Road (US-24).
Most iconic in Maine (it's not really in a major metro area, though): I-95 on the NH/ME border.
Quote from: cabiness42 on February 22, 2021, 08:22:39 AM
The most iconic bridge in Indiana is not actually a bridge--the I-65 overpass over IN 46 at Columbus.
I mean, technically it's still a bridge.
In Orlando we have no major rivers, but the Conroy Overpass at I-4 would be its signature bridge being designed as the Gateway bridge on I-4 with an iconic "Orlando" sign and crazy modern art spires on it.
Tampa Bay would be the Sunshine Skyway.
NYC would e the Brooklyn Bridge of course.
Quote from: cabiness42 on February 22, 2021, 08:22:39 AM
Quote from: Great Lakes Roads on February 21, 2021, 07:40:38 PM
Northern Indiana: Cline Avenue Bridge?
Evansville: The New I-69 Bridge?
Louisville: Lewis and Clark Bridge (Cable-stayed)
The most iconic bridge in Indiana is not actually a bridge--the I-65 overpass over IN 46 at Columbus.
Honestly though the most iconic bridge in Indiana is likely a covered bridge. It's on the freaking license plate. The one in Bridgeton in Parke County is pretty well known, but I'd go with the Narrows Covered Bridge near Turkey Run as being even more typical.
Looks like Sacramento hasn't been claimed yet. That one is indisputably the Tower Bridge (https://bridgehunter.com/ca/yolo/220021/), the entrance to downtown Sacramento from the west which carried US 40 and US 99W over the Sacramento River from the mid 1930s until the freeway bridge over the river, to the south, was built in the 1960s.
Cincinnati: Roebling Bridge
St Louis: Eads Bridge
Columbus: Main St Bridge
Jacksonville, FL - The I-295 Dames Point Bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@30.3646243,-81.5523212,3a,27.2y,349.42h,92.89t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s-8xioyfZcBPtQdfoz-x4cg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) over the St. Johns River.
Quote from: gonealookin on February 22, 2021, 06:26:44 PM
Looks like Sacramento hasn't been claimed yet. That one is indisputably the Tower Bridge (https://bridgehunter.com/ca/yolo/220021/), the entrance to downtown Sacramento from the west which carried US 40 and US 99W over the Sacramento River from the mid 1930s until the freeway bridge over the river, to the south, was built in the 1960s.
Sacramento has a relatively nice assortment of historic bridges with the I Street Bridge and Jaboom Street Bridged nearby. I'm kind of surprised how the Tower Bridge isn't more widely known given its a pretty attractive design.
With metro Phoenix it has to be the Mill Avenue Bridges over the Salt River in Tempe. A lot of history crossed those bridges by way of US 60/70/80/89.
Quote from: jemacedo9 on February 21, 2021, 07:41:14 PM
But for Pittsburgh? The combination of the Ft Pitt and Ft Duquesne Bridges?
Pittsburgh is indeed the city of bridges. For the lower bridges, I'd suggest any/all of the Three Sisters bridges. But I love the few that span over the gorges. So how about the Homestead High Level Bridge (now called the Homestead Grays Bridge). Head on over to Chiodo's and grab a couple of Mystery Sandwiches.
http://bridgehunter.com/pa/allegheny/homestead-high-level/
Quote from: Big John on February 21, 2021, 03:22:37 PM
Milwaukee: The new 6th St. viaduct.
Not the Hoan Bridge?
Quote from: jmd41280 on February 22, 2021, 07:54:57 PM
Jacksonville, FL - The I-295 Dames Point Bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@30.3646243,-81.5523212,3a,27.2y,349.42h,92.89t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s-8xioyfZcBPtQdfoz-x4cg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) over the St. Johns River.
That was the last bridge that was built by the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority (since 1971, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority, when it merged with the former City Coach Company-one of the presumably-obvious reasons behind the merger was to avoid confusion with the then-also new (since 1968) Jacksonville Electric Authority). The first bridge that the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority built was the then-soon-to-be-infamous Mathews Bridge, which connects the simultaneously-built Union Street Expressway to the later-built Arlington Expressway.
Quote from: tchafe1978 on February 22, 2021, 11:16:20 PM
Quote from: Big John on February 21, 2021, 03:22:37 PM
Milwaukee: The new 6th St. viaduct.
Not the Hoan Bridge?
I thought this was for one bridge. If it is for multiple bridge, I would add the Hoan.
Quote from: kevinb1994 on February 23, 2021, 01:01:31 AM
Quote from: jmd41280 on February 22, 2021, 07:54:57 PM
Jacksonville, FL - The I-295 Dames Point Bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@30.3646243,-81.5523212,3a,27.2y,349.42h,92.89t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s-8xioyfZcBPtQdfoz-x4cg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) over the St. Johns River.
That was the last bridge that was built by the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority (since 1971, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority, when it merged with the former City Coach Company-one of the presumably-obvious reasons behind the merger was to avoid confusion with the then-also new (since 1968) Jacksonville Electric Authority). The first bridge that the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority built was the then-soon-to-be-infamous Mathews Bridge, which connects the simultaneously-built Union Street Expressway to the later-built Arlington Expressway.
No Main Street Bridge? That's actually part of the City Skyline and hard to miss in that striking blue paint.
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 22, 2021, 08:25:02 PM
Quote from: gonealookin on February 22, 2021, 06:26:44 PM
Looks like Sacramento hasn't been claimed yet. That one is indisputably the Tower Bridge (https://bridgehunter.com/ca/yolo/220021/), the entrance to downtown Sacramento from the west which carried US 40 and US 99W over the Sacramento River from the mid 1930s until the freeway bridge over the river, to the south, was built in the 1960s.
Sacramento has a relatively nice assortment of historic bridges with the I Street Bridge and Jaboom Street Bridged nearby. I'm kind of surprised how the Tower Bridge isn't more widely known given its a pretty attractive design.
With metro Phoenix it has to be the Mill Avenue Bridges over the Salt River in Tempe. A lot of history crossed those bridges by way of US 60/70/80/89.
With metro Phoenix, I think the most iconic bridge is the bridge over the I-10, forming Bridge Deck Park. Or tunnel? AzDOT says it is just a really wide bridge, lol. Last section of I-10 to be built.
Quote from: MCRoads on February 23, 2021, 09:28:51 AM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 22, 2021, 08:25:02 PM
Quote from: gonealookin on February 22, 2021, 06:26:44 PM
Looks like Sacramento hasn't been claimed yet. That one is indisputably the Tower Bridge (https://bridgehunter.com/ca/yolo/220021/), the entrance to downtown Sacramento from the west which carried US 40 and US 99W over the Sacramento River from the mid 1930s until the freeway bridge over the river, to the south, was built in the 1960s.
Sacramento has a relatively nice assortment of historic bridges with the I Street Bridge and Jaboom Street Bridged nearby. I'm kind of surprised how the Tower Bridge isn't more widely known given its a pretty attractive design.
With metro Phoenix it has to be the Mill Avenue Bridges over the Salt River in Tempe. A lot of history crossed those bridges by way of US 60/70/80/89.
With metro Phoenix, I think the most iconic bridge is the bridge over the I-10, forming Bridge Deck Park. Or tunnel? AzDOT says it is just a really wide bridge, lol. Last section of I-10 to be built.
That's more of a cut and cover tunnel than an actual bridge structure. Yes, in terms of freeway design it is iconic but the Mill Avenue Bridges are real lookers. I forgot which station but there was a news report which had the Mill Avenue Bridges as their background image.
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 23, 2021, 07:25:26 AM
Quote from: kevinb1994 on February 23, 2021, 01:01:31 AM
Quote from: jmd41280 on February 22, 2021, 07:54:57 PM
Jacksonville, FL - The I-295 Dames Point Bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@30.3646243,-81.5523212,3a,27.2y,349.42h,92.89t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s-8xioyfZcBPtQdfoz-x4cg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) over the St. Johns River.
That was the last bridge that was built by the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority (since 1971, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority, when it merged with the former City Coach Company-one of the presumably-obvious reasons behind the merger was to avoid confusion with the then-also new (since 1968) Jacksonville Electric Authority). The first bridge that the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority built was the then-soon-to-be-infamous Mathews Bridge, which connects the simultaneously-built Union Street Expressway to the later-built Arlington Expressway.
No Main Street Bridge? That's actually part of the City Skyline and hard to miss in that striking blue paint.
I like the fact that the first Tv station around here, WJXT aka News 4 Jax, had its first studio building at the southeast corner of the Main Street Bridge. Unfortunately, when they built the I-95 expressway over the St Johns (via the infamous Fuller Warren Bridge-originally known as the Gilmore Street Bridge), they had to move to their current location.
No love for the Acosta Bridge? The original had a reversible lane in the middle. The current one has had its blue neon lights replaced with multicolor LED lights.
Quote from: kevinb1994 on February 23, 2021, 02:57:25 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 23, 2021, 07:25:26 AM
Quote from: kevinb1994 on February 23, 2021, 01:01:31 AM
Quote from: jmd41280 on February 22, 2021, 07:54:57 PM
Jacksonville, FL - The I-295 Dames Point Bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@30.3646243,-81.5523212,3a,27.2y,349.42h,92.89t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s-8xioyfZcBPtQdfoz-x4cg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) over the St. Johns River.
That was the last bridge that was built by the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority (since 1971, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority, when it merged with the former City Coach Company-one of the presumably-obvious reasons behind the merger was to avoid confusion with the then-also new (since 1968) Jacksonville Electric Authority). The first bridge that the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority built was the then-soon-to-be-infamous Mathews Bridge, which connects the simultaneously-built Union Street Expressway to the later-built Arlington Expressway.
No Main Street Bridge? That's actually part of the City Skyline and hard to miss in that striking blue paint.
I like the fact that the first Tv station around here, WJXT aka News 4 Jax, had its first studio building at the southeast corner of the Main Street Bridge. Unfortunately, when they built the I-95 expressway over the St Johns (via the infamous Fuller Warren Bridge-originally known as the Gilmore Street Bridge), they had to move to their current location.
No love for the Acosta Bridge? The original had a reversible lane in the middle. The current one has had its blue neon lights replaced with multicolor LED lights.
The lights on Acosta are nice but the structure looks too bland when the Main Street bridge is right in the same field of view.
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 23, 2021, 07:25:26 AMNo Main Street Bridge? That's actually part of the City Skyline and hard to miss in that striking blue paint.
That was a very close second for me.
Portland OR has so many bridges! I would nominate two. For beautiful modern design, give it to the Fremont Bridge. When it comes to classic old school looks, the Burnside Bridge is my pick.
Rick
Some metro areas have a plethora of choices, while others are really lacking. There doesn't seem to be any major trends, except that longer bridges tend to be more well-known... and maybe the more significant the river, the better the bridges?
Compare Pittsburgh, PA (which has three historically significant rivers and a lot of great bridges), to Columbus, OH (which has two little-known and largely insignificant rivers, the Scioto and the Olentangy, and no famous bridges). Night and day.
Seattle has many plain bridges, so our most iconic is probably the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
A shame that we couldn't get a cable-stayed bridge on SR 520 over Portage Bay.
Quote from: Bruce on February 24, 2021, 06:17:06 PM
Seattle has many plain bridges, so our most iconic is probably the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
I wouldn't be surprised if the collapse in 1940 is a reason why it is iconic.
Quote from: SkyPesos on February 24, 2021, 06:22:36 PM
Quote from: Bruce on February 24, 2021, 06:17:06 PM
Seattle has many plain bridges, so our most iconic is probably the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
I wouldn't be surprised if the collapse in 1940 is a reason why it is iconic.
That's part of it, along with being one of our only suspension bridges (and thus being beautiful to most).
If you've been to or you're from the Copper Country (the Keweenaw Peninsula) in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, you'll know that the Portage Lake Lift Bridge is the most iconic bridge in the area. In fact, it is the ONLY bridge to span the Portage Canal, running between the two cities of Houghton and Hancock.
Here is what the bridge looks like:
https://www.google.com/maps/@47.1226237,-88.571726,3a,42.3y,291.1h,101.97t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipO-r4KwUvdnGe3onFD4Rc_5nWxNYsB_2Yo3Dc14!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipO-r4KwUvdnGe3onFD4Rc_5nWxNYsB_2Yo3Dc14%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi-0-ya113.00644-ro0-fo100!7i8704!8i4352
Quote from: Bruce on February 24, 2021, 06:23:52 PM
Quote from: SkyPesos on February 24, 2021, 06:22:36 PM
Quote from: Bruce on February 24, 2021, 06:17:06 PM
Seattle has many plain bridges, so our most iconic is probably the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
I wouldn't be surprised if the collapse in 1940 is a reason why it is iconic.
That's part of it, along with being one of our only suspension bridges (and thus being beautiful to most).
Tacoma Narrows is far away from Seattle.
Maybe go with the decorated end of the floating bridge as it heads into the tunnel.
Quote from: Rothman on February 24, 2021, 07:51:54 PM
Quote from: Bruce on February 24, 2021, 06:23:52 PM
Quote from: SkyPesos on February 24, 2021, 06:22:36 PM
Quote from: Bruce on February 24, 2021, 06:17:06 PM
Seattle has many plain bridges, so our most iconic is probably the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
I wouldn't be surprised if the collapse in 1940 is a reason why it is iconic.
That's part of it, along with being one of our only suspension bridges (and thus being beautiful to most).
Tacoma Narrows is far away from Seattle.
Maybe go with the decorated end of the floating bridge as it heads into the tunnel.
I would still count Tacoma Narrows as Seattle, as the op said "metro area", and Seattle and Tacoma are in the same metro area. Though if it's specifically Seattle, I would go with either the I-90 floating bridge or the WA 99 Aurora Bridge, but neither are close to iconic as Tacoma Narrows.
Quote from: SkyPesos on February 24, 2021, 08:08:01 PM
Quote from: Rothman on February 24, 2021, 07:51:54 PM
Quote from: Bruce on February 24, 2021, 06:23:52 PM
Quote from: SkyPesos on February 24, 2021, 06:22:36 PM
Quote from: Bruce on February 24, 2021, 06:17:06 PM
Seattle has many plain bridges, so our most iconic is probably the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.
I wouldn't be surprised if the collapse in 1940 is a reason why it is iconic.
That's part of it, along with being one of our only suspension bridges (and thus being beautiful to most).
Tacoma Narrows is far away from Seattle.
Maybe go with the decorated end of the floating bridge as it heads into the tunnel.
I would still count Tacoma Narrows as Seattle, as the op said "metro area", and Seattle and Tacoma are in the same metro area. Though if it's specifically Seattle, I would go with either the I-90 floating bridge or the WA 99 Aurora Bridge, but neither are close to iconic as Tacoma Narrows.
The Alaskan Way Viaduct was that I always associated with Seattle. It feels weird not seeing it there over Alaskan Way anymore.
Memphis: The Hernando-Desoto Bridge
Montréal: tough call, but I'll say the Pont Samuel-De Champlain with the Pont Jacques-Cartier a close contender.
Quote from: rellis97 on February 24, 2021, 07:39:56 PM
If you've been to or you're from the Copper Country (the Keweenaw Peninsula) in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, you'll know that the Portage Lake Lift Bridge is the most iconic bridge in the area. In fact, it is the ONLY bridge to span the Portage Canal, running between the two cities of Houghton and Hancock.
Here is what the bridge looks like:
https://www.google.com/maps/@47.1226237,-88.571726,3a,42.3y,291.1h,101.97t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipO-r4KwUvdnGe3onFD4Rc_5nWxNYsB_2Yo3Dc14!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipO-r4KwUvdnGe3onFD4Rc_5nWxNYsB_2Yo3Dc14%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi-0-ya113.00644-ro0-fo100!7i8704!8i4352
There should be a NO OUTLET sign on the bridge lol.
Tacoma Narrows is too far away to be Seattle specifically. I would go with the I-90 floating bridge.
Not such a big metro area, but how about the Wheeling Suspension Bridge for iconic? And right now, its still closed to vehicular traffic (due to overweight and oversized vehicles that keep trying to destroy the landmark). Maybe we should blame the GPS.
Take photos of our 3 major floating bridges and I don't think most people would be able to tell them apart. They're quite plain, though SR 520 has sentinels that could potentially become an identifiable symbol (but far from iconic).
Aurora Bridge is definitely the best-known out of the in-city bridges, though, thanks to its bad luck. Also the troll under the bridge.
In Grand Rapids, probably the I-196 WB bridge over the Grand River.
https://www.google.com/search?q=I-196+bridge+over+grand+river+pics&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=wfRdqF0FVKGU-M%252CuM7PbOdU7L99SM%252C_&vet=1&usg=AI4_-kR8eAAuVJpa8y5W5alcDdqvYX6-rA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjaqpDTlYTvAhVsAZ0JHb4cDioQ9QF6BAgREAE#imgrc=wfRdqF0FVKGU-M
If pedestrian bridges count, the blue bridge over the Grand River.
https://www.google.com/search?q=blue+pedestrian+bridge+in+grand+rapids&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=tVgaDbUTrdS2kM%252CbYeYWFKkfkfYPM%252C_&vet=1&usg=AI4_-kRxZzYm9Pc3BSzWFGOLfFGOOjjTcA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj4y568loTvAhXDU80KHfL8AKQQ9QF6BAgQEAE#imgrc=tVgaDbUTrdS2kM
And I somehow almost forgot about the historic 6th Street Bridge.
https://michpics.wordpress.com/2016/04/11/sixth-street-bridge-in-grand-rapids/
Using the Springfield-Branson CSA rather than the Springfield MSA alone, I nominate the Y-Bridge of Galena.
Toronto doesn't really have any iconic bridges, so maybe the following:
1) Gardiner Expressway, technically a 6 km long bridge since it's elevated on the eastern section
2) Prince Edward Viaduct, carries Bloor Street/Danforth Avenue over the Don Valley and also carries a subway line underneath
Quote from: rellis97 on February 24, 2021, 07:39:56 PM
If you've been to or you're from the Copper Country (the Keweenaw Peninsula) in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, you'll know that the Portage Lake Lift Bridge is the most iconic bridge in the area. In fact, it is the ONLY bridge to span the Portage Canal, running between the two cities of Houghton and Hancock.
Here is what the bridge looks like:
https://www.google.com/maps/@47.1226237,-88.571726,3a,42.3y,291.1h,101.97t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipO-r4KwUvdnGe3onFD4Rc_5nWxNYsB_2Yo3Dc14!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipO-r4KwUvdnGe3onFD4Rc_5nWxNYsB_2Yo3Dc14%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi-0-ya113.00644-ro0-fo100!7i8704!8i4352
Wow, I thought it was in Grand Rapids, not in the sticks. I think this bridge is more significant then just being the biggest bridge in the area, as IIRC it is the heaviest lift bridge worldwide. However, what I don't get is why build such a big bridge there when a smaller bridge or 2 would have probably worked?
Quote from: MCRoads on February 26, 2021, 06:16:03 PM
Quote from: rellis97 on February 24, 2021, 07:39:56 PM
If you've been to or you're from the Copper Country (the Keweenaw Peninsula) in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, you'll know that the Portage Lake Lift Bridge is the most iconic bridge in the area. In fact, it is the ONLY bridge to span the Portage Canal, running between the two cities of Houghton and Hancock.
Here is what the bridge looks like:
https://www.google.com/maps/@47.1226237,-88.571726,3a,42.3y,291.1h,101.97t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipO-r4KwUvdnGe3onFD4Rc_5nWxNYsB_2Yo3Dc14!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipO-r4KwUvdnGe3onFD4Rc_5nWxNYsB_2Yo3Dc14%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi-0-ya113.00644-ro0-fo100!7i8704!8i4352
Wow, I thought it was in Grand Rapids, not in the sticks. I think this bridge is more significant then just being the biggest bridge in the area, as IIRC it is the heaviest lift bridge worldwide. However, what I don't get is why build such a big bridge there when a smaller bridge or 2 would have probably worked?
The railroad grade contributes heavily to why it's so robust.
Live stream of the Houghton-Hancock Lift Bridge: https://www.mtu.edu/webcams/bridge/
As I post this it is winter, and the bridge is in the fully lowered position. The lower deck, former railroad, is used for snowmobiles.
In the summer, the bridge is lifted so that the lower deck is level with the road approaches at each end. This means there is more clearance underneath and the don't need to raise it as often, only for larger and taller vessels.
Freighters will go through the Portage from time to time, but not very often. I don't believe the largest boats will fit, and there could be draft issues. They used to deliver coal to Hancock, but I don't know if that still happens. Road salt too.
Spokane is easy, since they include their most iconic in their city logo: https://my.spokanecity.org/about/government/logo-and-colors/
That's the Monroe Street Bridge, which spans the Spokane River in downtown near the falls.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e7/Monroe_Street_Bridge_20070217.jpg/1280px-Monroe_Street_Bridge_20070217.jpg)
Quote from: jayhawkco on February 21, 2021, 03:59:51 PM
Denver isn't really known for water. So I'll nominate the former Gates Rubber Factory Bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@39.7213339,-105.0087712,3a,75y,190.76h,91.25t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1srVcWfzx-ijgwwsHIsUDzgg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) that attaches to I-25.
Chris
While that is an odd-looking bridge, I would say the twin Speer Boulevard bridges (https://www.google.com/maps/@39.7534112,-105.0090091,3a,68.3y,310.62h,88.02t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s3jIaioVcc_042SRzyOvqDg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) over the South Platte are more iconic. And, yes, we have few choices here in the Denver metro.
There are many iconic bridges in the coastal Carolina region. Lots of road trips around the coastal plain include at least one landmark bridge. Since most coastal towns require crossing a wide inland river or waterway to access the actual beach, it has resulted in many a high-rise bridge, often replacing a small drawbridge or ferry. Follow US 17 up or down the eastern seaboard, and there will be no shortage of awesome bridges. Same goes for the last miles of US 64, US 421, and all of NC 12.
Quote from: tchafe1978 on February 22, 2021, 11:16:20 PM
Quote from: Big John on February 21, 2021, 03:22:37 PM
Milwaukee: The new 6th St. viaduct.
Not the Hoan Bridge?
Also, 25 years old is "new"? :P
Haven't read any nominees yet for Chicago. That's a tough one as everything is boring viaducts or cloned bascule spans of the Chicago River. Therefore, I submit that the most iconic bridge in metro Chicago is the Hinsdale Oasis. :-D
For Baltimore, narrowly speaking, it could be either the Hanover Street Bridge, Key Bridge or the I-895 K-bridge. On a broader scale, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge (Anne Arundel and Queen Anne's counties are in the metro area).
Quote from: CoreySamson on February 21, 2021, 06:47:27 PM
It's probably the Fred Hartman Bridge on SH-146 for Houston, although the new ship channel bridge on Beltway 8 will eventually top it.
Yeah. We don't really have many major bridges here because we don't really have a large river. The ship channel is only large enough for a big bridge on the east side but most people are not going to be driving around that area unless they work or live out there. And that's not a whole lot of people. All of our other water is little bayous and creeks haha
My hometown, New Orleans has two that are iconic in different ways and to different groups of people: the Crescent City Connection which is an iconic part of the skyline, and the Huey p long which used to be so rickety, narrow, and terrifying it was infamous to anyone who lived or grew up there. Now it's been totally rebuilt and is really rather nice.
I was gonna suggest the Speer arch twins for Denver too, but it looks like people beat me to it.
In Australia it's pretty simple.
Sydney: Sydney Harbour
Melbourne: Westgate
Brisbane: Story
For Seattle, I'd nominate the Montlake Bridge, a 1920s drawbridge over a canal.
The floating bridges are great, but fairly new and the visible part of the bridge is just a bridge deck.
For San Francisco, I'll take the easy point for the Golden Gate.
In San Diego, the historic Cabrillo Bridge in Balboa Park, carrying El Prado over CA 163.
Honorable mentions:
-- the "gateway" concrete arch bridge carrying Eastgate Mall over I-805 near La Jolla, and much farther north (but still in the outer metro area) the similar concrete arch Lilac Bridge over I-15 north of Escondido
-- the viaduct carrying I-805 across Mission Valley, which is the top level of a four-level interchange with ramps connecting I-805 and I-8 on the bottom level.
Quote from: webny99 on February 21, 2021, 01:52:03 PM
I'll start with Rochester, NY: I-490 over the Genesee River (https://www.google.com/maps/@43.1462054,-77.6107902,3a,15y,16.53h,92.81t/data=!3m8!1e1!3m6!1sAF1QipNugTdcWzd9T5OyzSNTvvUTyDhLgXIXOpKeAkR4!2e10!3e11!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipNugTdcWzd9T5OyzSNTvvUTyDhLgXIXOpKeAkR4%3Dw203-h100-k-no-pi-0-ya120.97009-ro-0-fo100!7i7168!8i3584!5m1!1e1).
Hmm, that's an interesting one. It certainly seems iconic now–was built to be, frankly. But it's a comparatively new bridge, even more so than the Interstate itself, and so it has a bit of catching up to do. There's certainly a case to be made for the Broad St. bridge, because its lower level is the former canal aqueduct, and as such it's the crossing most entwined with the city's history. Also, Main St., if never iconic, was certainly noteworthy once, when it was lined with an unbroken facade of buildings on both sides. You don't see that every day, in this country anyhow.
Barring those, the Driving Park Avenue bridge was apparently a big deal in its day. And one bridge that, surprisingly, never seems even to have flirted with icon status is the Vets Bridge (NY 104). I don't know why, I guess it's just a little too tucked away, despite being appealing and monumental and all the rest of it.
Quote from: empirestate on March 08, 2021, 01:31:38 AM
And one bridge that, surprisingly, never seems even to have flirted with icon status is the Vets Bridge (NY 104). I don't know why, I guess it's just a little too tucked away, despite being appealing and monumental and all the rest of it.
That is an interesting one, seemingly forgotten despite being one of the most prominent structures in the area. My guess is that it's the combination of (a) it being pretty forgettable from atop, especially given that you can't even
see the river, (b) the fact that it's near several bends in the river, so it's hard to get a good view of the bridge from anywhere in the area, and (c) it's too far from downtown to see the skyline and could pass for a suburban bridge, reducing its "urban icon" potential.
Quote from: The Nature Boy on February 21, 2021, 07:46:48 PM
Washington DC: Arlington Memorial Bridge?
I agree with that for several reasons. Its styling makes it the most befitting of a capital city (compare it to the utterly practical Roosevelt and 14th Street Bridges to either side), its location directly behind the Lincoln Memorial contributes to its use in many iconic photographs, and even though it's located wholly within the District, it's often seen as symbolically linking North and South, not least because Robert E. Lee's house sits on the hill above the bridge opposite the Lincoln Memorial and because so many significant funeral processions heading to Arlington Cemetery have crossed that bridge (such as John F. Kennedy's).
The new Frederick Douglass Bridge going up over the Anacostia River is seen as a sort of "signature span" design, but I can't imagine it would ever surpass Memorial Bridge in the public consciousness for a lot of reasons.
Quote from: 1995hoo on March 08, 2021, 09:02:08 AM
The new Frederick Douglass Bridge going up over the Anacostia River is seen as a sort of "signature span" design, but I can't imagine it would ever surpass Memorial Bridge in the public consciousness for a lot of reasons.
I have to imagine the river it crosses is one of those reasons: everyone knows the Potomac, but the Anacostia isn't nearly as well known.
Quote from: webny99 on March 08, 2021, 09:38:06 AM
Quote from: 1995hoo on March 08, 2021, 09:02:08 AM
The new Frederick Douglass Bridge going up over the Anacostia River is seen as a sort of "signature span" design, but I can't imagine it would ever surpass Memorial Bridge in the public consciousness for a lot of reasons.
I have to imagine the river it crosses is one of those reasons: everyone knows the Potomac, but the Anacostia isn't nearly as well known.
The Anacostia is indeed sometimes called DC's "forgotten river."
Quote from: 1995hoo on March 08, 2021, 09:40:11 AM
Quote from: webny99 on March 08, 2021, 09:38:06 AM
Quote from: 1995hoo on March 08, 2021, 09:02:08 AM
The new Frederick Douglass Bridge going up over the Anacostia River is seen as a sort of "signature span" design, but I can't imagine it would ever surpass Memorial Bridge in the public consciousness for a lot of reasons.
I have to imagine the river it crosses is one of those reasons: everyone knows the Potomac, but the Anacostia isn't nearly as well known.
The Anacostia is indeed sometimes called DC's "forgotten river."
And the eponymous neighborhood no less so.
Quote from: empirestate on March 08, 2021, 12:34:34 PM
Quote from: 1995hoo on March 08, 2021, 09:40:11 AM
Quote from: webny99 on March 08, 2021, 09:38:06 AM
Quote from: 1995hoo on March 08, 2021, 09:02:08 AM
The new Frederick Douglass Bridge going up over the Anacostia River is seen as a sort of "signature span" design, but I can't imagine it would ever surpass Memorial Bridge in the public consciousness for a lot of reasons.
I have to imagine the river it crosses is one of those reasons: everyone knows the Potomac, but the Anacostia isn't nearly as well known.
The Anacostia is indeed sometimes called DC's "forgotten river."
And the eponymous neighborhood no less so.
MacArthur burning it down didn't help things.
Omaha's would have to be the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. As for bridges which carry vehicular traffic, I can't tell you, because they're either in Omaha and look entirely utilitarian or they're in Council Bluffs and look hideous.
Quote from: nexus73 on February 24, 2021, 10:16:47 AM
Portland OR has so many bridges! I would nominate two. For beautiful modern design, give it to the Fremont Bridge. When it comes to classic old school looks, the Burnside Bridge is my pick.
Rick
Didn't know about Portland's bridges that much, but after looking at some of them, there's two particular bridges that stood out to me. There's the new Tilikum Bridge, which is cable stayed (my favorite general bridge type) and is unique that it's for buses and light rail only. The Steel Bridge is interesting in that it carries a variety of transit types (cars and light rail on the upper deck, Union Pacific/Amtrak trains on the lower deck), and is a vertical lift bridge.
In Midland MI, it's The Tridge over the Tittabawassee and Chippewa rivers.
https://goo.gl/maps/37nEizStbzGp5Ly76
For Saint Cloud, despite straddling the Mississippi none of its bridges are all that iconic. I might have to go with the BNSF railroad bridge (https://goo.gl/maps/vdU6CNLSysdQTgrbA) downtown. It's featured in the news a few times a year for... not such great reasons that I'll leave up to your imagination.
My other nomination might be the Sauk Rapids Bridge because it's probably the most architecturally unique (which isn't saying much) and it supposedly has the longest spiral pedestrian ramp (https://goo.gl/maps/AjnUCBYSwyTKkdo66) in the United States.
Honorable mention goes to the Holdingford covered bridge (https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/minnesota/longest-covered-bridge-mn/) on the Lake Wobegon Trail. It's the longest covered bridge in the state and is featured heavily in county and statewide biking publications.
Quote from: DandyDan on March 09, 2021, 05:24:21 AM
Omaha's would have to be the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. As for bridges which carry vehicular traffic, I can't tell you, because they're either in Omaha and look entirely utilitarian or they're in Council Bluffs and look hideous.
I'd guess either the Mormon (I-680) or the new US 275 one which is kinda interesting.... you don't see too many box-trusses built these days. Growing up, the Mormon is the one I always remember crossing.... seems like half the time these days you can't get to it cause the Iowa approach is flooded.
https://www.wdrb.com/news/fire-destroys-historic-covered-bridge-in-springfield-kentucky/article_ebeb7296-81b0-11eb-b99f-d3ba3764f19a.html
This small community just lost its iconic bridge.
Quote from: roadman65 on March 11, 2021, 10:29:23 AM
https://www.wdrb.com/news/fire-destroys-historic-covered-bridge-in-springfield-kentucky/article_ebeb7296-81b0-11eb-b99f-d3ba3764f19a.html (https://www.wdrb.com/news/fire-destroys-historic-covered-bridge-in-springfield-kentucky/article_ebeb7296-81b0-11eb-b99f-d3ba3764f19a.html)
This small community just lost its iconic bridge.
Ugh, I can't believe someone would destroy it. Shame!
Oklahoma City: Skydance pedestrian bridge over I-40.
If you want something a bit less artsy, the rail bridge over I-235.
St. Louis is the Eads Bridge no doubt.
Quote from: roadman65 on March 12, 2021, 09:57:40 AM
St. Louis is the Eads Bridge no doubt.
Yes and there was once a street named after Mr. Eads here, over in the Five Points/Riverside area. It is now known as Oak Street.
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 23, 2021, 03:27:33 PM
Quote from: kevinb1994 on February 23, 2021, 02:57:25 PM
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 23, 2021, 07:25:26 AM
Quote from: kevinb1994 on February 23, 2021, 01:01:31 AM
Quote from: jmd41280 on February 22, 2021, 07:54:57 PM
Jacksonville, FL - The I-295 Dames Point Bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@30.3646243,-81.5523212,3a,27.2y,349.42h,92.89t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s-8xioyfZcBPtQdfoz-x4cg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192) over the St. Johns River.
That was the last bridge that was built by the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority (since 1971, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority, when it merged with the former City Coach Company-one of the presumably-obvious reasons behind the merger was to avoid confusion with the then-also new (since 1968) Jacksonville Electric Authority). The first bridge that the former Jacksonville Expressway Authority built was the then-soon-to-be-infamous Mathews Bridge, which connects the simultaneously-built Union Street Expressway to the later-built Arlington Expressway.
No Main Street Bridge? That's actually part of the City Skyline and hard to miss in that striking blue paint.
I like the fact that the first Tv station around here, WJXT aka News 4 Jax, had its first studio building at the southeast corner of the Main Street Bridge. Unfortunately, when they built the I-95 expressway over the St Johns (via the infamous Fuller Warren Bridge-originally known as the Gilmore Street Bridge), they had to move to their current location.
No love for the Acosta Bridge? The original had a reversible lane in the middle. The current one has had its blue neon lights replaced with multicolor LED lights.
The lights on Acosta are nice but the structure looks too bland when the Main Street bridge is right in the same field of view.
I guess we're both sort of nostalgic for the original bridge, then. :p
In Québec City, I'd say either of the bridges spanning the Saint Lawrence River (the Québec bridge and the Pierre Laporte bridge) could have arguments in favor of one of them being the most iconic.
Quote from: Bruce on February 26, 2021, 08:18:55 PM
Spokane is easy, since they include their most iconic in their city logo: https://my.spokanecity.org/about/government/logo-and-colors/
That's the Monroe Street Bridge, which spans the Spokane River in downtown near the falls.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e7/Monroe_Street_Bridge_20070217.jpg/1280px-Monroe_Street_Bridge_20070217.jpg)
Didn't make it onto the city logo, but the Latah Creek BNSF railroad bridge adjacent to I-90 is unique, since it actually splits that RR's northern transcontinental line into two branches (southwest to the Columbia River Gorge and Portland and west toward Everett and eventually Seattle) right on the bridge structure (the SW branch then crosses over I-90).
Hill to Hill Bridge in Lehigh Valley (https://www.google.com/maps/@40.6154196,-75.3845014,3a,75y,309.38h,72.44t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s3UvFMiSJjgNc3rLGtd21Rg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192).
Los Angeles hasn't gotten a mention yet; although not particularly known for its bridges, the most iconic -- if now replaced -- would have been the 6th street viaduct, which not only bridged the L.A. River, but all the major rail lines coming into town along its banks, plus a big chunk of the warehouse/industrial area east of downtown. I'm definitely making a trip back down to see its rather uniquely-designed replacement once it opens for traffic. But in the interim, the only L.A. bridges that would warrant mention in the same breath are the Vincent Thomas suspension span (CA 47) between Terminal Island and San Pedro, and the new Gerald Desmond bridge replacement between that same island and downtown Long Beach (the southernmost reaches of I-710). And, currently, that's about it!
Quote from: Dirt Roads on February 21, 2021, 05:33:05 PM
In Richmond, how about the CSXT Acca Bridge carrying the former Atlantic Coast Line (now CSXT's North End Subdivision) across the James River. A majestic view of the Acca Bridge was created after the construction of the Powhite Parkway in the early 1970s. To make things confusing, the other Acca Bridge is a 6-lane highway bridge carrying Westwood Avenue/Saunders Avenue (VA-197) over these same tracks at east end of Acca Yard (which is actually CSXT former Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac on the west leg of the wye).
https://www.flickr.com/photos/83399266@N02/38128968532
I know I'm late with this but I agree, this bridge is easily the most iconic in the Richmond area. If the old Lee Bridge was still around then it would be right up there with it too.
Also notable is the Mayo Bridge (US 360), given that it's the oldest highway bridge across the James in the area still in use, and the I-295 Varina-Enon Bridge because it's the 2nd major modern cable-stayed bridge in the country (only the Sunshine Skyway is older).
Quote from: sparker on May 01, 2021, 04:29:31 PM
Los Angeles hasn't gotten a mention yet; although not particularly known for its bridges, the most iconic -- if now replaced -- would have been the 6th street viaduct, which not only bridged the L.A. River, but all the major rail lines coming into town along its banks, plus a big chunk of the warehouse/industrial area east of downtown. I'm definitely making a trip back down to see its rather uniquely-designed replacement once it opens for traffic. But in the interim, the only L.A. bridges that would warrant mention in the same breath are the Vincent Thomas suspension span (CA 47) between Terminal Island and San Pedro, and the new Gerald Desmond bridge replacement between that same island and downtown Long Beach (the southernmost reaches of I-710). And, currently, that's about it!
I'd also consider the Colorado Street viaduct over the Arroyo Seco (former US-66, then CA-134) in Pasadena.
Quote from: Dirt Roads on February 21, 2021, 05:33:05 PM
In Richmond, how about the CSXT Acca Bridge carrying the former Atlantic Coast Line (now CSXT's North End Subdivision) across the James River. A majestic view of the Acca Bridge was created after the construction of the Powhite Parkway in the early 1970s. To make things confusing, the other Acca Bridge is a 6-lane highway bridge carrying Westwood Avenue/Saunders Avenue (VA-197) over these same tracks at east end of Acca Yard (which is actually CSXT former Richmond, Fredericksburg and Potomac on the west leg of the wye).
https://www.flickr.com/photos/83399266@N02/38128968532
Quote from: plain on May 01, 2021, 04:48:16 PM
I know I'm late with this but I agree, this bridge is easily the most iconic in the Richmond area. If the old Lee Bridge was still around then it would be right up there with it too.
The new one was being constructed when I lived in Richmond. Here's what it looked like when first completed: http://www.usgwarchives.net/va/cityofrichmond/postcards/relbr.jpg (http://www.usgwarchives.net/va/cityofrichmond/postcards/relbr.jpg)
And this is what it looked like when I lived there: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/571394271453356968/ (https://www.pinterest.com/pin/571394271453356968/)
For Philadelphia, I think Bill Burr answered that one in 2006:
Quote
I hope you all get in your Ford Focuses and f***ing drive off the side of that f****t ass Ben Franklin bridge. You f***ing one bridge having piece of sh*t city that no one gives a f*** about.
So, the Ben Franklin Bridge :-)
Quote from: DTComposer on May 01, 2021, 06:42:36 PM
Quote from: sparker on May 01, 2021, 04:29:31 PM
Los Angeles hasn't gotten a mention yet; although not particularly known for its bridges, the most iconic -- if now replaced -- would have been the 6th street viaduct, which not only bridged the L.A. River, but all the major rail lines coming into town along its banks, plus a big chunk of the warehouse/industrial area east of downtown. I'm definitely making a trip back down to see its rather uniquely-designed replacement once it opens for traffic. But in the interim, the only L.A. bridges that would warrant mention in the same breath are the Vincent Thomas suspension span (CA 47) between Terminal Island and San Pedro, and the new Gerald Desmond bridge replacement between that same island and downtown Long Beach (the southernmost reaches of I-710). And, currently, that's about it!
I'd also consider the Colorado Street viaduct over the Arroyo Seco (former US-66, then CA-134) in Pasadena.
I'd generally agree that it should be on the regional "top five" list; even more so if it weren't right next to the similarly designed but massively wider CA 134 freeway bridge. I grew up a few miles west of there in Glendale; the Colorado Street bridge was referred to, at least locally, as the "Suicide Bridge" after those unfortunates who jumped from it, mostly prior to the installation of the tall & sharp curved closely-spaced spikes along its sides (".....I want to kill myself, but I don't want to get hurt doing it!").
The old 6th Street viaduct got nationwide publicity when the penultimate "action" scene of the 2003 movie version of "SWAT" featured the villain's private jet landing on said bridge -- not, however, through the two through truss sections! A stretch of imagination, of course, but one would have to hand it to the film's special effects folks!
Arroyo Seco came to my mind first for LA area. Given its location on US 66, I'd argue that it is more famous than a bridge featured in a B-rated action film.
Quote from: sparker on May 03, 2021, 05:09:28 AM
Quote from: DTComposer on May 01, 2021, 06:42:36 PM
I'd also consider the Colorado Street viaduct over the Arroyo Seco (former US-66, then CA-134) in Pasadena.
I'd generally agree that it should be on the regional "top five" list; even more so if it weren't right next to the similarly designed but massively wider CA 134 freeway bridge.
Whichever one is featured in Roger Rabbit and all those other movies set in Hollywood. :popcorn:
More on the Zilwaukee Bridge that GaryV mentioned up thread. There was a major construction accident building this bridge. It is the replacement for a drawbridge that use to be on I-75 and that drawbridge is part of the reason I-675 was built to bypass it. I grew up in the shadows of this bridge in Zilwaukee and watched it as it was being built.
When the bridge was a little over halfway done a 150 foot long section weight 6,700 tons was not properly counterbalanced and tipped 5 feet down on one end and 3 and a half feet up on the other end and a pier footing cracked. The state fired the original contractors and brought in another contractor to make the repairs and finish the bridge. I can remember them being able to heat the concrete so they could work in the winter as well.
The bridge has been closed several times over the years for repair work in various sections. I-675 is used as I-75 when this happens and the bridge is safe to drive on. It hasn't had to be closed in about 8 years now. The last closure they replaced 154 bearings on the bridge and rebuilt 4 miles of I-75.
Harrisburg PA -- arguably it SHOULD be the Rockville (Norfolk Southern RR) Bridge. But given the loss of one portion of the Walnut Street bridge in the 96 flood, I think it's that one.
Williamsport, PA - Market St Bridge
Reading, PA -- Lindbergh Viaduct?
Cumberland, MD -- Blue Bridge/WV 28 Alt Bridge?
SM-T290
https://fineartamerica.com/featured/elizabeth-quay-bridge-at-sunset-sue-errington-wood.html
Perth Australia now has this.
San Francisco is obviously the Dumbarton Bridge :bigass:
Quote from: kernals12 on August 08, 2021, 10:03:53 AM
San Francisco is obviously the Dumbarton Bridge :bigass:
San Francisco is tricky. The Bay Bridge has a huge amount of traffic, and was for a while the Longest Bridge in the World (TM) if you allow multiple spans. But the Golden Gate is more recognizeable, even to Starfleet.
Quote from: kkt on August 24, 2021, 03:33:14 PM
San Francisco is tricky. The Bay Bridge has a huge amount of traffic, and was for a while the Longest Bridge in the World (TM) if you allow multiple spans. But the Golden Gate is more recognizeable, even to Starfleet.
Only the second reflects the meaning of "iconic"–to my mind, it's not tricky whatsoever!
Quote from: kernals12 on August 08, 2021, 10:03:53 AM
San Francisco is obviously the Dumbarton Bridge :bigass:
I have never heard of it. Can you please explain?
Nobody's picked Miami yet; for all those crossings of the Intracoastal Waterway, there's not really a singular iconic or "most famous" bridge for the metro area. I'd go with the 17th Street Causeway (A1A in Fort Lauderdale), for design and traffic volumes, but that's open to interpretation.
The Seven Mile Bridge would probably the most famous just outside the region, but The Keys are separate micropolitan area.
Quote from: MCRoads on August 24, 2021, 06:35:06 PM
Quote from: kernals12 on August 08, 2021, 10:03:53 AM
San Francisco is obviously the Dumbarton Bridge :bigass:
I have never heard of it. Can you please explain?
CA-84 over the SF Bay toward the southern end of the bay.
Quote from: formulanone on August 24, 2021, 07:49:52 PM
Nobody's picked Miami yet; for all those crossings of the Intracoastal Waterway, there's not really a singular iconic or "most famous" bridge for the metro area. I'd go with the 17th Street Causeway (A1A in Fort Lauderdale), for design and traffic volumes, but that's open to interpretation.
How about the Metromover bridge over the Miami River to the Brickell extension? This is lit up in colors at night.
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fc/Metromover_going_over_the_Miami_River.jpg/800px-Metromover_going_over_the_Miami_River.jpg)
I've walked across this a bunch of times while we were testing. This bridge has four plinth-beams with an emergency walkway between the two middle ones. I'm not sure when MDTA installed the handrails along the outside plinths, but they weren't up when I was working there. For some reason, the drop on the river side wasn't near as scary as the stretch running elevated over 11th Street. Back then, you were looking straight down at the powerlines along the sidewalk.
Quote from: Flint1979 on August 24, 2021, 08:09:42 PM
Quote from: MCRoads on August 24, 2021, 06:35:06 PM
Quote from: kernals12 on August 08, 2021, 10:03:53 AM
San Francisco is obviously the Dumbarton Bridge :bigass:
I have never heard of it. Can you please explain?
CA-84 over the SF Bay toward the southern end of the bay.
A not particularly exciting bridge. The first Dumbarton Bridge's claim to fame was that it was the first road bridge crossing the Bay. It was replaced in the early 1980s by a workmanlike but uninteresting reinforced concrete bridge.
Quote from: kkt on August 24, 2021, 10:00:01 PM
Quote from: Flint1979 on August 24, 2021, 08:09:42 PM
Quote from: MCRoads on August 24, 2021, 06:35:06 PM
Quote from: kernals12 on August 08, 2021, 10:03:53 AM
San Francisco is obviously the Dumbarton Bridge :bigass:
I have never heard of it. Can you please explain?
CA-84 over the SF Bay toward the southern end of the bay.
A not particularly exciting bridge. The first Dumbarton Bridge's claim to fame was that it was the first road bridge crossing the Bay. It was replaced in the early 1980s by a workmanlike but uninteresting reinforced concrete bridge.
Correct. I was more interested with the abandoned railroad bridge than I was with the road bridge.
Newport, OR.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51402716291_1a67b741dd_k.jpg)
Quote from: roadman65 on August 25, 2021, 09:39:53 PM
Newport, OR.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51402716291_1a67b741dd_k.jpg)
I've always liked this bridge. If I ever make it out to the West coast I hope to drive across it.
I drove across it a month ago and in the time between my southbound trip to a nearby beach and my northbound return, someone had managed to wedge their car over the sidewalk railing.
Quote from: Bruce on August 26, 2021, 01:47:43 AM
I drove across it a month ago and in the time between my southbound trip to a nearby beach and my northbound return, someone had managed to wedge their car over the sidewalk railing.
Sounds like they were drunk
Metropolitan Mackinaw City/St. Ignace, Da Mackinac Bridge.
Quote from: Flint1979 on August 26, 2021, 02:42:04 PM
Metropolitan Mackinaw City/St. Ignace, Da Mackinac Bridge.
I sorta beat you to it. See reply 15.
Quote from: GaryV on August 26, 2021, 03:04:21 PM
Quote from: Flint1979 on August 26, 2021, 02:42:04 PM
Metropolitan Mackinaw City/St. Ignace, Da Mackinac Bridge.
I sorta beat you to it. See reply 15.
LOL and I replied to that post too because you mentioned the Zilwaukee Bridge too. I live about 7 miles from the Zilwaukee Bridge.
Every time I read Zilwaukee, I spend a good 20 seconds thinking "I think they misspelled Milwaukee". I can't be the only one.
Quote from: plain on August 26, 2021, 01:42:10 PM
Quote from: Bruce on August 26, 2021, 01:47:43 AM
I drove across it a month ago and in the time between my southbound trip to a nearby beach and my northbound return, someone had managed to wedge their car over the sidewalk railing.
Sounds like they were drunk
Maybe but hate to judge without actually knowning anything. Maybe the driver had a seizure or something.
Quote from: US 89 on August 26, 2021, 05:00:54 PM
Every time I read Zilwaukee, I spend a good 20 seconds thinking "I think they misspelled Milwaukee". I can't be the only one.
Because that is exactly how Zilwaukee got it's name. They named it Zilwaukee with hopes it would confuse immigrants coming into New York thinking they are going to Milwaukee.
If it hasn't been mentioned before, it's the Cabrillo Bridge for San Diego, though the Coronado Bridge comes close second.
Grants Pass, OR it's the Caveman Bridge of course.
in Atlanta, it is the 17th street bridge.
Nashville: Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge or the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
I'd go with this (https://www.google.com/maps/@36.0255594,-78.8512418,3a,79.6y,19.32h,100.24t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sevmptHl5OFd5x3qVHlSTxQ!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3DevmptHl5OFd5x3qVHlSTxQ%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D119.96008%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192) one because of the piers... They are square and not rounded.
Quote from: tolbs17 on December 18, 2021, 04:10:57 PM
I'd go with this (https://www.google.com/maps/@36.0255594,-78.8512418,3a,79.6y,19.32h,100.24t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sevmptHl5OFd5x3qVHlSTxQ!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3DevmptHl5OFd5x3qVHlSTxQ%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D119.96008%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192) one because of the piers... They are square and not rounded.
Highway overpasses don't really scream "iconic" at all, unless it's something like I-65 over IN 46 in Columbus, IN, and that's the only notable bridge in the city.
NYC: Brooklyn Bridge
Nashville: John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati Metro: John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
Detroit: Ambassador Bridge
Pittsburgh: Three Sisters Bridges
Philadelphia: Benjamin Franklin Bridge
Los Angeles: Sixth Street Viaduct
San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge
Quote from: Chrysler375Freeway on December 19, 2021, 01:41:05 AM
Los Angeles: Sixth Street Viaduct
Will the new one still qualify?
Quote from: Chrysler375Freeway on December 19, 2021, 01:41:05 AM
Detroit: Ambassador Bridge
Fortunately soon to be overtaken in this category by the Gordie Howe Bridge. The only thing iconic about the Ambassador Bridge is the complete civic assholes that were/are Matty Maroun and his Detroit International Bridge Company.
Quote from: Chrysler375Freeway on October 28, 2021, 08:05:22 PM
Nashville: Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge or the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge
The Korean Veterans Memorial Bridge should also be considered, though it's usually overshadowed by the Seigenthaler.
For Columbia, SC, it's the Gervais St Bridge carrying US 1 over the Congaree River.
For Greenville, SC, it's the Liberty Bridge (pedestrian) over the Falls of the Reedy River.
I don't think Charlotte, NC really has an iconic bridge since it's the probably the largest city in the country not on a major river. So maybe the I-77 south to I-485 outer fourth-level flyover? :-D
Quote from: jp the roadgeek on February 21, 2021, 11:52:49 PM
Hartford: The Bulkeley Bridge, although I would nominate the Bushnell Arch if the Park River were not buried underground. If you want to get out in the sticks, I'll include the Cornwall Covered Bridge.
New Haven: The Pearl Harbor Memorial ("Q") Bridge.
Great Connecticut choices! The Bulkeley carries I-84 over the Connecticut River. The Q-Bridge in New Haven carries I-95 over the Quinnipiac River. The West Cornwall bridge spans the Housatonic River and connects to US Route 7 on the Sharon (western) side.
Another notable bridge in the region would also be the Memorial Bridge over the Connecticut River between Springfield and West Springfield, MA.
Providence: The Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge
Quote from: DTComposer on May 01, 2021, 06:42:36 PM
Quote from: sparker on May 01, 2021, 04:29:31 PM
Los Angeles hasn't gotten a mention yet; although not particularly known for its bridges, the most iconic -- if now replaced -- would have been the 6th street viaduct, which not only bridged the L.A. River, but all the major rail lines coming into town along its banks, plus a big chunk of the warehouse/industrial area east of downtown. I'm definitely making a trip back down to see its rather uniquely-designed replacement once it opens for traffic. But in the interim, the only L.A. bridges that would warrant mention in the same breath are the Vincent Thomas suspension span (CA 47) between Terminal Island and San Pedro, and the new Gerald Desmond bridge replacement between that same island and downtown Long Beach (the southernmost reaches of I-710). And, currently, that's about it!
I'd also consider the Colorado Street viaduct over the Arroyo Seco (former US-66, then CA-134) in Pasadena.
And the Hyperion Avenue bridge over I-5 and the LA River.
Palm Springs doesn't really have bridges. Probably one of the viaducts over I-10 like at Date Palm (https://www.google.com/maps/@33.8495913,-116.45896,3a,60y,93.9h,89.11t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sIUnbWPiuTB7QIEvLsr-pcw!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en). Technically we're part of the San Bernardino-Riverside metro which probably has an iconic bridge (https://www.google.com/maps/@33.9883273,-117.3861004,3a,60y,114.49h,89.68t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sxTdHIlIW0AR5NAwKCg86ug!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en) or two (https://www.google.com/maps/@34.5732817,-117.3220657,3a,60y,331.02h,78.2t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sgK6CdbMrkvOd5YSSHhPwGA!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en), but it's hard to think you're in the same metro when the other cities are an hour away with lots of nothing in between.
For Oklahoma City, it would be the old US66 bridge at Lake Overholser
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lake+Overholser+Bridge+Route+66/@35.5146212,-97.6632658,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sAF1QipMY9O3x5tNAIVtAEXMuESq4wAKvYJNeOUiZYlf3!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh5.googleusercontent.com%2Fp%2FAF1QipMY9O3x5tNAIVtAEXMuESq4wAKvYJNeOUiZYlf3%3Dw114-h86-k-no!7i4032!8i3024!4m5!3m4!1s0x87b205999c0c0c95:0x161a9e990dfd7972!8m2!3d35.5146212!4d-97.6632658
In Tulsa, the old US66 b ridge across the Arkansas River. It hard to see as it is between the SW Blvd bridge an I244.
https://www.google.com/maps/@36.1443478,-96.0030659,3a,75y,273.15h,95.6t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1snjXSaifUq0uXFg2F7mTMPw!2e0!7i16384!8i8192