Ballard Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ballard Bridge |
|
|---|---|
The Ballard Bridge seen from the
Seattle Maritime Academy |
|
| Carries | 15th Avenue NW |
| Crosses | Salmon Bay |
| Locale | Seattle |
| Other name(s) | 15th Avenue Bridge |
| Maintained by | Seattle Department of Transportation |
| Heritage status | NRHP |
| Characteristics | |
| Total length | 2,854 ft (870 m) |
| Longest span | 218 ft (66 m) |
| History | |
| Architect | A.H. Dimock |
| Construction end | 1917 |
| Rebuilt | 1939 |
|
Ballard Bridge
|
|
Ballard Bridge in the process of opening (or closing)
|
|
| Location | Seattle, Washington |
| Built | 1917 |
| MPS | Historic Bridges/Tunnels in Washington State TR |
| NRHP reference No. | 82004231 |
| Added to NRHP | July 16, 1982 |
The Ballard Bridge, also known as the 15th Avenue Bridge, is a special type of bridge in Seattle, Washington. It's a bascule bridge, which means it has sections that can lift up. This allows boats to pass underneath.
The bridge carries 15th Avenue NW over Salmon Bay. It connects the neighborhoods of Ballard to the north and Interbay to the south. The Ballard Bridge is one of several bridges that cross the Lake Washington Ship Canal. This canal links Lake Washington to Puget Sound.
Contents
History of the Ballard Bridge
The Ballard Bridge was built in 1917. It has a main section that can open up to 218 feet (about 66 meters) wide. The total length of the bridge is 2,854 feet (about 870 meters).
Early Design and Changes
When it was first built, the parts of the bridge that didn't lift were made of wood planks. The bridge also used to carry a streetcar line. In 1939, some big changes were made to the bridge. The wooden sections were replaced with concrete. At this time, the tracks for the streetcar were also removed.
A Historic Landmark
The Ballard Bridge is an important part of Seattle's history. In 1982, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This means it is recognized as a significant historical site.
How the Bridge Works
The Ballard Bridge is a double-leaf bascule bridge. This means it has two parts that lift up, like a seesaw. When a tall boat needs to go through, the bridge operator lifts these sections. This creates a wide opening for the boat to pass safely.
Keeping the Bridge Safe
The bridge is an important route for cars, bikes, and pedestrians. People who use the bridge, especially bicyclists, have suggested ways to make it even safer. The city works to keep the bridge in good condition for everyone.
Gallery
-
Ballard Bridge under construction, 1916
-
The bridge, up
-
The bridge, down
