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Information:
This bridge is the longest continuous truss bridge in North America and carries two lanes of US 101 and bycycles. The bridge was built to withstand Pacific storms with wind speeds that reach some 150 miles (240 km) per hour and river currents that can hit speeds of 9 miles per hour.
The bridge is the site of the Great Columbia Crossing, held each October, during which pedestrians are allowed to cross the bridge. Associated with the event, the town of Astoria hosts the Silver Salmon Celebration festival, which includes a barbecue and entertainment. In addition, the bridge has been featured in several car and truck television commercials, as well as in the 1986 movie Short Circuit.
Driving Directions:
The bridge is located fourteen miles from the mouths of the Columbia river in Astoria, Oregon, and crosses the lower Columbia River between Astoria and Megler, Washington, and was the final segment of US highway 101 to be completed between Olympia Washington and Los Angeles.
Prior to the completion of this bridge, there was a ferry service that connected Astoria with the state of Washington, which began in 1926. The ferry was purchased by the ODT in 1946 and did not cross the river in inclement weather. There was a half hour crossing time on the ferry, which always caused delays.
Location:
Coordinates:
46.1935648, -123.8510820
Elevation:
196 feet
Bridge Specification
Bridge Type:
Steel Cantilever through Truss Bridge
Date Construction Began:
05 November 1962
Date Open:
29 July 1966
Replaces:
Astoria-Megler Ferry
Total Length:
4.076 miles
21,474 feet
Deck Width:
28 feet
Main Span Length:
1,233 feet
Number of Spans:
eight main, 33 approach
171 piers in the water
Crosses:
Lower Columbia River
Clearance Above:
(Vehicle Clearance) about 18 feet.
Clearance Below:
(Vessel Clearance) 191 feet.
Cost to Build:
$24.00 million
Cost to Restore:
$30.00 million in 2021-2022
Fee to Cross
None since December 1993
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