Talmadge Memorial Bridge

Talmadge Memorial Bridge is a cable-stayed crossing over the Savannah River, linking downtown Savannah with areas south of the river in South Carolina. The roadway runs across four lanes, while two slender towers hold steel cables that support the deck, with the main span measuring 335 meters (around 1,100 feet).

The crossing opened in November 1991, replacing an earlier span from 1953 whose low clearance prevented large cargo ships from reaching Savannah's port. The new construction allowed the harbor to welcome modern container ships and freighters, supporting the economic growth of the region.

The crossing honors Eugene Talmadge, who shaped Georgia politics as governor during the 1930s and early 1940s. Local residents often call it the Talmadge Bridge and use it as a landmark when giving directions or explaining how to reach the waterfront.

The span is visible from the waterfront and can be reached on foot or by bicycle from several points along the riverbank. Traffic flows are heaviest during morning and late afternoon hours, when commuters travel between Georgia and South Carolina.

The clearance height of 56 meters (around 185 feet) above the water makes this crossing one of the tallest of its kind in the region. From the highest point of the roadway, you can see Savannah's harbor to the west and the river mouth to the east, where the water meets the Atlantic Ocean.

Location: Savannah

Inception: November 1991

Official opening: November 1991

Length: 3,060 m

Longest Span: 335 m

GPS coordinates: 32.08910,-81.09880

Latest update: December 20, 2025 01:19