St. Johns Bridge is simply one of the most beautiful bridges in the United States. Its gothic arches, stunning green color, and decorative concrete all add to this brilliant piece of art. For many people living in Portland, Oregon, St. Johns Bridge is not only pleasing to look at but is essential to their travel across Willamette River. It connects Cathedral Park to Whitwood Court. Without this bridge, it would add more than 21 miles onto a traveler’s journey to get from one side of the river to the other. St. Johns Bridge is currently the tallest bridge in Portland and runs 2,067 feet across – which is just under half a mile.
St. Johns Bridge was built in 1931, and at that time it was the longest suspension bridge west of the Mississippi River. The location of this bridge was perfect because before it was built, this location was a hotspot for ferries that carried more than 1,000 cars back and forth over the water every day. This bridge ended up being a blessing to the town in more ways than just transport. Just as construction for St. Johns Bridge started, the stock market crashed, causing the Great Depression. As construction for the bridge continued, it provided many jobs for residents of Portland and surrounding areas. The entire bridge was completed in just under two years without using the whole budget that was set aside for the project. It is said that the bridge was completed with 1 million dollars of the budget remaining. This elaborate construction that was done many years ago is still enjoyed by hundreds of people today.
Though this is just a bridge, St. Johns Bridge is a beautiful bridge with a fantastic view. It is an essential roadway for travelers and commuters – but not only that. This bridge draws people in for an afternoon bike ride, scenic drive, or morning walk. If you choose to take a walk across this enormous bridge, you will likely be enticed to take many pictures along the way – especially if you haven’t been across before. You will notice the fresh green color that was chosen for the bridge in hopes to stray away from the dull old colors of most bridges and instead bring personality to the bridge and fit in with the lush tree-covered mountains. This is quite the contrast to the other side of the bridge brings you right into the city of Portland, if nature is more your thing you’ll love the west side of this bridge. If you get a chance check out Leach Botanical Garden. Whichever side you are going to, you will also likely admire the artsy details that were purposefully added into the concrete and other parts of the bridge.
One fun fact about St. Johns Bridge is an elaborate illegal skate park had been partially built under the bridge. After discovering this partially built skatepark, the community quickly acted to stop what personal construction had taken place due to the danger of adding weight to the cable points under this old bridge.
Today bike tours, boat tours, and helicopter tours of Portland Oregon include visiting St. Johns Bridge in all its beauty. This extensive work of art is a famous historical attraction for residents and visitors alike. It is known to be the most walked bridge I the Portland area because of the fascinating detail strollers can identify, as well as the incredible views of Cathedral Park, tree-covered mountains, and rushing water down below.