Bridging the Gap: A Totally Unscientific Guide to Counting Portland's Bridges (and Avoiding a River Dip)
Ah, Portland, the city of roses, rain showers that linger just a tad too long, and...bridges? You betcha! But how many bridges grace the fair Willamette River, snaking its way through Portland's heart? Buckle up, bridge enthusiasts (and those who simply want to avoid a scenic, but potentially damp, detour), because we're diving into the murky depths of...bridge counting!
 |
| How Many Bridges Cross The Willamette In Portland |
The Great Bridge Census: It's Not Rocket Science (But Maybe a Little Math)
Now, some folks might say counting bridges is about as exciting as watching paint dry. But those folks, my friends, are missing the thrill of the hunt! There are two main schools of thought on this sticky subject (no pun intended, for all you bridge-enthusiast-aquatic-mammals out there).
Camp "Strictly Portland": These bridge purists believe only bridges within Portland's city limits deserve the official count. In their corner, they have the mighty Hawthorne Bridge, a historic landmark and prime spot for people-watching (and, let's be honest, some epic selfies).
Camp "Greater Portland Spirit": These bridge embracers include any bridge spanning the Willamette in the greater Portland area. They argue that bridges connect communities, and who are we to argue with togetherness? They champion the impressive Sellwood Bridge, a vital link for both cars and cyclists.
So, How Many Bridges Are We Talking About?
Drumroll please...
QuickTip: A short pause boosts comprehension.
If you subscribe to Camp "Strictly Portland," then the answer is a neat 12 bridges. Not too shabby, right? But for our friends in Camp "Greater Portland Spirit," the grand total jumps to a whopping 15!
Important Note: This isn't an exact science. New bridges pop up faster than you can say "detour," and some might argue a drawbridge is basically two bridges in one (existential bridge crisis, anyone?).
Reminder: Revisit older posts — they stay useful.
The Bottom Line: Don't End Up Under the Bridge (Literally)
Here's the real takeaway: The number of bridges in Portland isn't about bragging rights (though, some friendly competition never hurt anyone). It's about the vital role these bridges play in connecting people, places, and communities.
 |
So, the next time you're cruising across the Willamette, take a moment to appreciate these architectural marvels. They're keeping us dry (most of the time) and helping Portland live up to its nickname: Bridge City!
Tip: Focus more on ideas, less on words.
How-To FAQs for the Discerning Bridge Counter
How to impress your friends with your newfound bridge knowledge?
- Casually drop "I hear there are over a dozen bridges spanning the Willamette in Portland" at your next trivia night. Bonus points for knowing the difference between Camp "Strictly Portland" and Camp "Greater Portland Spirit."
How to avoid getting lost while bridge-hopping?
Tip: Note one practical point from this post.
- A trusty map (or a smartphone with functioning GPS) is your best friend. Remember, some bridges are for cars only, while others welcome pedestrians and cyclists. Plan your route accordingly!
How to capture the perfect bridge pic?
- Find a scenic vantage point and get creative! Portland has no shortage of stunning bridges, each with its own unique charm.
How to deal with bridge construction (because let's be real, it happens)?
- Patience, my friend, patience. Take a deep breath, consult your map for alternate routes, and maybe treat yourself to a coffee while you wait.
How to appreciate the beauty of Portland's bridges, rain or shine?
- Embrace the spirit of the city! There's a certain magic to seeing the city lights reflected on the Willamette, even on a drizzly day.
 |
