East 21st Street Bridge

The East 21st Street Bridge is a cable-stayed suspension bridge crossing the Thea Foss Waterway in Tacoma with four traffic lanes serving the community. Two tall towers rise from the water to support the cables that hold up the roadway, creating a distinctive profile above the waterway.

The bridge opened in 1997 as a response to growing traffic demands between downtown and the port district. It became an essential route for vehicles connecting the city center with expanding industrial and shipping operations.

Local architect Jim Merritt incorporated modern engineering elements into the bridge design, reflecting the industrial character of Tacoma's port area.

The bridge is accessible for walking and driving as it carries a major public road through the area. Crossing during off-peak hours offers a clearer view of the structure and surrounding waterway without heavy traffic.

Twin towers rise from the waterway, supporting an intricate network of cables that distribute weight across the entire 682-foot bridge structure.

Location: Tacoma

GPS coordinates: 47.24400,-122.43200

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:45