Third Bridge, Bridge in Vila Velha, Brazil
The Darcy Castello de Mendonça crossing stretches 3.3 kilometers across Vitória Bay, linking Vila Velha with Vitória through 61 pillars. The toll plaza features 15 lanes that handle traffic in both directions.
Construction began in 1978 under Governor Elcio Alvares and ended in 1989 during Max Mauro's term. The project aimed to handle growing traffic between the two cities.
The name comes from two earlier connections between the cities: the Florentino Avidos crossing from 1928 and the Prince crossing from 1979. Drivers use it daily for work or beach trips, while pedestrians enjoy views across the bay.
Around 58,000 vehicles cross the structure daily, and medical as well as mechanical help is available. Pedestrian paths provide access for walkers who want to make the crossing on foot.
The central span reaches a height of 70 meters (230 feet) and a width of 260 meters (850 feet) between pillars. Large ships can pass underneath the structure and enter Vitória Bay.
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