Raymond E. Baldwin Bridge

The Raymond E. Baldwin Bridge is a road crossing that spans the Connecticut River between Old Saybrook and Old Lyme. The structure features eight traffic lanes and is built from reinforced concrete segments that create a smooth passage over the waterway.

The first bridge opened in 1948, replacing an earlier bascule structure from 1911 that could no longer handle traffic demands. The entire bridge was reconstructed in the 1990s using contemporary engineering methods and materials.

The bridge is named after a former state governor and reflects how connecting communities across rivers became central to regional growth. It shapes the daily experience of travelers crossing between towns and remains embedded in local transportation patterns.

The bridge accommodates regular vehicle traffic and offers a designated pathway for pedestrians and cyclists along the north side. Travelers should expect congestion during rush hours when the crossing sees its highest use.

The bridge originally operated as a toll crossing and collected fees from travelers until the 1980s, when the toll system was eliminated. This history often goes unnoticed by drivers today who take the free passage for granted.