Isaac Lee Patterson Bridge

The Isaac Lee Patterson Bridge is a concrete arch bridge spanning the Rogue River at Gold Beach that connects the two riverbanks with seven deck arches. The structure extends over roughly 600 meters and carries U.S. Route 101 traffic across the river just before it flows into the Pacific Ocean.

The bridge was completed in 1932 and was the first application of the Freyssinet pre-tensioning method for arch structures in the United States. This innovative technique from Europe enabled a new approach to bridge construction that used longer spans more effectively.

The bridge displays Art Deco styling with decorative pylons at each end that reflect the simplified design language of 1930s engineering. Walking across it, you notice the refined details in the railings and supports that were characteristic of that era's approach to public structures.

You can cross the bridge anytime in your vehicle at no cost, with two lanes available for traffic in both directions. Pedestrians and cyclists should be cautious since the bridge is primarily designed for cars.

During construction, engineers built a concrete production facility on the north riverbank to manufacture materials on site rather than importing them. Reinforcing steel was transported over several kilometers from Port Orford, a remarkable feat of logistics for that era.

Location: Gold Beach

Inception: May 28, 1932

Official opening: May 28, 1932

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture, Art Deco architecture

Made from material: concrete

GPS coordinates: 42.42720,-124.41300

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:05