Oregon City Bridge

The Oregon City Bridge is a steel through arch structure spanning 745 feet (227 meters) across the Willamette River with a main span of 360 feet (110 meters). The construction provides 49 feet (15 meters) of vertical clearance and connects Oregon City with West Linn.

The bridge was completed in 1922 under the direction of architect Conde McCullough and replaced an earlier cable-suspension bridge from 1888. This new construction enabled stronger traffic flow between the two communities.

The bridge displays ornamental details such as obelisk pylons and Art Deco piers that catch visitors' attention while crossing. These decorative elements give the structure a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from typical modern bridges.

Traffic flows across the bridge via Oregon Route 43 and the structure underwent modernization between 2010 and 2012 to improve load capacity. Crossing on foot is possible and offers views of the river and surrounding areas.

The bridge is Oregon's only structure coated in gunite, a sprayed concrete that shields the steel from corrosion caused by industrial emissions in the area. This protection system was applied specifically due to the chemical exposure of the surrounding environment.

Location: Oregon City

Location: West Linn

Architects: Conde Balcom McCullough

Official opening: December 28, 1922

GPS coordinates: 45.35906,-122.60969

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:06