New Bedford – Fairhaven Bridge, Swing bridge between New Bedford and Fairhaven, Massachusetts.
The New Bedford-Fairhaven Bridge is a swing bridge crossing the Acushnet River between two Massachusetts cities. Its center section rotates to allow boats to pass through, while the rest of the structure stays fixed for vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
Construction began in 1897 and was completed in 1900, creating a permanent link between the two banks of the river. This project replaced earlier ferry service that had connected the communities for decades.
The bridge connects two communities deeply rooted in whaling and fishing traditions that still shape daily life today. People from both sides use it constantly, making it part of the everyday rhythm between the waterfront neighborhoods.
The bridge is open to pedestrians and vehicles throughout the day, with boat traffic taking priority during openings. Expect short delays during peak navigation periods when the center section rotates.
What sets this bridge apart is how frequently it opens each year to accommodate boat traffic on a historic whaling route. Hundreds of openings annually show the ongoing importance of maritime commerce in this region.
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