Ben Williamson Memorial Bridge, Road bridge in Ashland, Kentucky
The Ben Williamson Memorial Bridge is a road bridge that crosses the Ohio River between Kentucky and Ohio, featuring a cantilever structure with multiple traffic lanes. The span extends approximately 738 feet (225 meters) across the water, linking Ashland with Coal Grove in the neighboring state.
The bridge opened in 1931 as a toll crossing that linked the two banks of the Ohio River for the first time on this route. In 1941, it became toll-free, marking an important change for the community.
The bridge bears the name of Ben M. Williamson, a United States Senator and local businessman who shaped the region's development. It serves as a familiar landmark in Ashland's urban landscape, connecting two states on a route that locals and visitors cross daily.
The bridge is part of US Route 23 Spur and carries southbound traffic from Coal Grove to Ashland across three lanes. Visitors should know that this is primarily a vehicle route where traffic flows regularly throughout the day.
In 2007, the bridge was painted light green, a color connected to Ashland's city logo. This paint job creates a visible contrast to the nearby blue Simeon Willis Bridge and makes the structure a recognizable local marker.
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