San Diego–Coronado Bridge facts for kids
Quick facts for kids San Diego–Coronado Bridge |
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| Coordinates | 32°41′11″N 117°09′30″W / 32.6865°N 117.1583°W |
| Carries | 5 lanes of  SR 75 |
| Crosses | San Diego Bay |
| Locale | San Diego and Coronado, California |
| Owner | State of California |
| Maintained by | California Department of Transportation |
| ID number | 57 0857 |
| Characteristics | |
| Design | Orthotropic deck on box girder |
| Material | Prestressed concrete and steel |
| Total length | 11,179 feet (3,407 m) or 2.1 miles (3.4 km) (including approaches) |
| Width | 63 feet (19 m) between curbs |
| Longest span | 660 feet (200 m) |
| Number of spans | 32 |
| Piers in water | 21 |
| Clearance below | 200 feet (61 m) |
| History | |
| Successful competition design | 1978 World Bridge Beauty Contest |
| Constructed by | Murphy-Pacific |
| Fabrication by | Murphy-Pacific |
| Construction begin | February 1967 |
| Construction cost | US$48 (equivalent to $383 in 2022) million |
| Opened | August 3, 1969 |
| Replaces | San Diego and Coronado Ferry |
| Statistics | |
| Daily traffic | 75,000 (2009) |
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The San Diego–Coronado Bridge, often called the Coronado Bridge, is a famous bridge in California. It opened in 1969. This bridge connects the city of San Diego with Coronado Island. It crosses over San Diego Bay.
The bridge is a very important route for people traveling between these two places. It also offers amazing views of the bay and the cities.
Contents
Building the Coronado Bridge
The idea for a bridge connecting San Diego and Coronado had been around for many years. Before the bridge, people used a ferry to cross the bay. Building the bridge was a huge project.
When Construction Started
Work on the San Diego–Coronado Bridge began in February 1967. Many people worked hard to build this large structure. It took over two years to complete.
Opening Day
The bridge officially opened on August 3, 1969. This was a big event for the area. It made travel much faster and easier for everyone.
Bridge Design and Features
The Coronado Bridge is known for its unique curved shape. This curve was designed to allow tall ships to pass underneath easily.
How Long and High is it?
- The bridge is about 2.1 miles (3.4 km) long, including its approach roads.
- It stands about 200 feet (61 m) above the water at its highest point. This height allows large ships, like naval vessels, to sail safely below.
- The main part of the bridge, called the main span, is 660 feet (200 m) long.
What is it Made Of?
The bridge is built using strong materials. It uses both steel and concrete. These materials make the bridge very durable and safe.
A Beautiful Bridge
The San Diego–Coronado Bridge is not just useful; it's also considered very beautiful. In 1978, it even won the World Bridge Beauty Contest! Its elegant curve and design make it a landmark.
Images for kids
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Waterline view of bridge construction, around 1968
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A view of the bridge from a commercial jet
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See also
In Spanish: Puente del Coronado para niños
