Morrison Bridge

Morrison Bridge is a steel crossing that spans the Willamette River and joins the eastern and western sections of Portland. It features multiple lanes for vehicles, a dedicated bikeway, and a pedestrian pathway alongside the roadway.

The structure replaced an earlier crossing and opened in 1958 to improve connections as Portland grew. This bridge represented the city's modernizing transportation needs at that time.

The bridge shapes how Portlanders experience crossing the river and has become woven into the city's routine. It connects neighborhoods that once felt separate and marks a significant threshold in daily urban life.

The pedestrian path and bikeway provide safe passage for those crossing on foot or by bicycle, while a movable span allows boats to pass underneath. Walking or cycling outside rush hour makes the crossing more comfortable.

The bascule mechanism still operates to raise and allow boats to pass through, a working detail that most people driving daily never notice. This feature links the busy city streets above with active river traffic below.

Location: Portland

Inception: May 24, 1958

Official opening: May 24, 1958

GPS coordinates: 45.51790,-122.67000

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:59