Glenn L. Jackson Memorial Bridge

The Glenn L. Jackson Memorial Bridge is an interstate bridge spanning the Columbia River between Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington. The structure consists of two parallel spans carrying four lanes in each direction while allowing river traffic to pass underneath.

The bridge opened in 1982 after five years of construction, becoming a major milestone in connecting Oregon and Washington for commerce and commuting. The project resulted from growing demand for better transportation links between the expanding metropolitan areas on both sides of the river.

The bridge name honors a longtime transportation official who shaped how the two states connect and move goods. Today it serves as a practical link between two communities that share resources and daily life across the river.

The bridge provides a separate pedestrian and bicycle path between the main spans with views over the river. Access points are clearly marked and connect to the local trail system for easy navigation.

The bridge segments were manufactured miles downstream and then transported by barge to their installation location. This construction method allowed faster assembly at the actual site.

Inception: December 15, 1982

Official opening: December 15, 1982

GPS coordinates: 45.59306,-122.54861

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:43