Lafayette Avenue Bridge

The Lafayette Avenue Bridge is a metal continuous deck stringer bridge that crosses the West Channel of the Saginaw River in Bay City. The structure features six main spans with curved, riveted built-up steel beams and carries traffic across the water with a roadway approximately 30 feet wide.

The original structure completed in 1876 was deemed unsafe and condemned in 1934 during the Great Depression. Funding from the Public Works Administration enabled construction of the replacement bridge, which opened in 1938.

The structure represents mid-20th century American civil engineering, incorporating continuous superstructure design elements that were advanced for their time.

The bridge carries two state highways and underwent major rehabilitation work in 2005 to improve structural integrity. Visitors crossing on foot should be aware that the steep arch of the deck can make walking feel unusual.

The structure features an unusually steep arch that creates a noticeably curved profile when you cross it. This distinctive shape sets it apart from other bridges built during the same period.

Location: Michigan

Inception: 1938

Official opening: 1938

GPS coordinates: 43.57970,-83.90000

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:46