Spanning the Years: Unveiling Portland's Oldest Bridge (It's Not What You Think!)
Portland, Oregon. City of Roses? Absolutely. Foodie haven? You betcha. But what about bridges? Those majestic steel (or concrete) behemoths that gracefully (or not so gracefully) help us navigate the Willamette River? Well, buckle up, history buffs and bridge enthusiasts, because we're about to dive into the fascinating world of Portland's oldest crossings!
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| What is The Oldest Bridge In Portland Oregon |
Hold Your Horses (or Trains)! The True OG
Now, you might think the oldest bridge in Portland would be a charming, old-timey structure perfect for a romantic stroll. But plot twist! The title of "Portland's Most Aged Bridge" actually goes to the Burlington Northern Railroad Bridge, which rumbled onto the scene in 1908. That's right, folks, this bridge is strictly for our locomotive friends, so forget about scenic views or leisurely walks with your pup.
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The Hawthorne Bridge: Grand and Glorious (and Actually Usable by Humans)
But fear not, pedestrian and cyclist pals! If you're looking for a bridge with a bit more, ahem, human appeal, then the Hawthorne Bridge is your huckleberry. Opened in 1910, this beauty holds the crown for the oldest public bridge in Portland. Not only is it a vital traffic artery, but it also boasts the prestigious title of America's Oldest Operating Vertical Lift Bridge.
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Imagine it: cars bustling along, cyclists weaving through traffic (because, Portland!), and then BAM! The bridge gracefully raises its central span to allow a tall ship to pass underneath. Pretty darn cool, right?
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Fun Fact Frenzy!
- The Hawthorne Bridge is so busy, it sees over 8,000 cyclists and 800 TriMet buses cross its path every single day! That's a lot of two-wheeled action and public transportation love.
- This grand dame of bridges even made it onto the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. Talk about a prestigious address!
So, You Want to be a Bridge Buff? How To...
- Track Down the Hawthorne Bridge: Head to Hawthorne Boulevard or Madison Street, and you'll be greeted by this historic beauty.
- Snap a Panoramic Photo: The views from the Hawthorne Bridge are top-notch, offering a glimpse of the city skyline and the mighty Willamette River.
- Time Your Trip (If You Hate Waiting): The Hawthorne Bridge is notorious for raising its central span to allow river traffic through. Be sure to check the bridge opening schedule to avoid any delays in your commute (or photo op!).
With a little planning and a dash of bridge appreciation, you can experience a piece of Portland's history firsthand. Now get out there and explore!
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