Queen Isabella Causeway, Road bridge in Port Isabel, Texas, United States.
The Queen Isabella Causeway is a road bridge in southern Cameron County, Texas, linking Port Isabel to South Padre Island. It spans the Laguna Madre for 2.37 miles (3.8 kilometers) and carries traffic as well as utility lines for electricity and fresh water.
In September 2001, loaded barges collided with a support column, causing two sections of the bridge to collapse and killing eight people. Following the accident, engineers installed a fiber optic warning system to monitor the structural condition.
The structure serves as a memorial to the victims of the 2001 tragedy, prompting annual gatherings where local communities share memories and stories.
The bridge is the only road connection to the island and is used daily by locals and visitors heading to the beaches. Winds over the water can be strong, so drivers should take care, especially in tall vehicles.
After the collapse, the bridge was fitted with sensors that monitor any change in the structure in real time. This technology allows for early warning of possible damage and ensures quick responses.
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