Market Street Bridge, Bascule bridge in Chattanooga, United States
Market Street Bridge is a bascule bridge that crosses the Tennessee River in Chattanooga, built with concrete arch spans on each side and a steel truss section at its center. The central section lifts to let river traffic pass beneath it.
The bridge opened in 1917 and at that time featured the longest lifting span of any bridge in the world. It became a key link between Chattanooga and the areas across the river as the city grew.
The bridge was officially renamed Chief John Ross Bridge in 1950 to honor the Cherokee leader who once lived in the Chattanooga area. Most locals still use the original name in everyday conversation, so the official name is rarely heard.
The bridge lifts periodically to let river traffic through, which can cause short waits for pedestrians and drivers. Walking across gives a clear view of the Tennessee River and the surrounding riverbanks on both sides.
Despite the official renaming in 1950, no local signage along the bridge displays the name Chief John Ross Bridge. The original name has stayed so firmly in everyday use that the official one is almost invisible in the city.
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