Ballard Bridge, Double-leaf bascule bridge in Seattle, United States.
Ballard Bridge is a double-leaf bascule structure that opens and closes in Seattle's harbor, connecting the Ballard and Interbay neighborhoods across Salmon Bay. The structure spans roughly 2,854 feet and carries vehicle traffic primarily on 15th Avenue Northwest.
The structure opened in 1917 while the Lake Washington Ship Canal was being built, replacing wooden bridges that had crossed Salmon Bay since 1889. The bridge was part of a larger effort to improve Seattle's waterways and harbor access.
Eight sculptures near the bridge from 2003 honor Native American peoples and Scandinavian settlers who shaped the Ballard neighborhood. Visitors can explore these artworks while walking and learn about the diverse roots of this area.
The bridge opens multiple times daily to allow boats to pass, with each opening lasting about four minutes. Pedestrians and cyclists should expect brief delays when the bridge is raised.
The structure preserves its original Chicago-style steel design from 1917, which led to its listing on the National Register in 1982. This engineering approach remains notable in bridge history for balancing function with durability.
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