Mackinac Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mackinac Bridge |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Carries | 4 lanes of I-75 |
| Crosses | Straits of Mackinac |
| Locale | Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, Michigan |
| Other name(s) | Mighty Mac or Big Mac |
| Maintained by | Mackinac Bridge Authority |
| Characteristics | |
| Design | Suspension bridge |
| Total length | 26,372 feet (8,038 m) |
| Width | 68.6 feet (20.9 m) (total width) 54 feet (16 m) (road width) 38.1 feet (11.6 m) (depth) |
| Height | 552 feet (168 m) |
| Longest span | 3,800 feet (1,158 m) |
| Clearance above | 200 feet (61 m) |
| Clearance below | 155 feet (47 m) |
| History | |
| Opened | November 1, 1957 |
| Statistics | |
| Daily traffic | 11,600 |
| Toll | $2.00 per axle for passenger vehicles ($4.00 per car). $3.50 per axle for motor homes. $4.50 per axle for commercial vehicles. |
|
|
The Mackinac Bridge, often called the Mighty Mac, is a super long bridge in Michigan, USA. It stretches about 5 miles (8 kilometers) and carries a four-lane highway called Interstate 75. This amazing bridge connects the two main parts of Michigan: the Upper Peninsula and the Lower Peninsula.
The bridge crosses a narrow stretch of water called the Straits of Mackinac. This strait links two of the Great Lakes: Lake Michigan to the west and Lake Huron to the east.
At its center, the Mackinac Bridge is a suspension bridge. This means the main part of the bridge, made of strong steel and concrete, hangs from thick wires. These wires are connected to two giant, curved cables that stretch between tall towers.
To help pay for its upkeep, the government agency that manages the bridge charges a small toll for vehicles to drive across it. For example, in 2020, it cost $4.00 for a regular passenger car.
The bridge is also a beautiful sight at night! The government hangs colorful lights from its huge cables. When these lights are turned on, the bridge glows and can be seen from many miles away.
Contents
Connecting Michigan's Peninsulas
The Mackinac Bridge is very important for the state of Michigan. Before it was built, people had to use ferries to cross the water between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The bridge made travel much faster and easier.
Where the Bridge Is Located
The bridge connects two towns: Mackinaw City in the Lower Peninsula and St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula. It's a key part of the main highway, I-75, which runs through Michigan.
How the Bridge Works
The Mackinac Bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. Its design allows it to span a wide body of water without needing many supports in the middle.
Suspension Bridge Design
A suspension bridge uses tall towers and strong main cables. These cables are anchored at both ends of the bridge. Smaller vertical cables hang down from the main cables, supporting the bridge deck where cars drive. This design helps the bridge handle heavy loads and strong winds.
A Bridge with Lights and History
The Mackinac Bridge is not just for travel; it's also a famous landmark and a symbol of Michigan.
Opening Day and Its Impact
The Mackinac Bridge officially opened on November 1, 1957. This event was a huge deal for northern Michigan. It led to a big increase in tourists. People from all over North America started driving to see the bridge, explore the Great Lakes, and enjoy the northern forests. This brought a lot of new business and growth to the area.
Images for kids
-
Vacationland, the largest and last Michigan State Highway Department automobile ferry put in service prior to the completion of the Mackinac Bridge
-
Traffic on the bridge's opening day in November 1957
-
A close-up view of the north tower of the bridge
-
Another view of a bridge tower
-
The Mackinac Bridge seen from the south shore
-
The Mackinac Bridge lit up at night
-
A large freighter boat passing under the bridge
-
People participating in the annual Mackinac Bridge Walk
-
A Mackinac Island ferry boat passing in front of the Mackinac Bridge.
-
The Mackinac Bridge seen from Michilimackinac State Park in Mackinaw City
See also
In Spanish: Puente del Estrecho de Mackinac para niños
