Centre Street Bridge

The Centre Street Bridge spans the Bow River with four arched sections, featuring upper and lower traffic decks connected by concrete pavilions at each end.

Built in 1916 for 375,000 dollars, this bridge replaced the MacArthur Bridge that was destroyed by flooding in 1915.

Four concrete lions guard the bridge entrances, accompanied by Canadian and British symbols including buffalo heads, maple leaves, roses, and thistles.

The lower deck maintains a clearance of 2.7 meters, requiring drivers of large vehicles to use alternative routes across the Bow River.

Local folklore tells of the bridge's concrete lions coming to life after dark and wandering through Calgary's streets.

Location: Calgary

Official opening: December 18, 1916

GPS coordinates: 51.05290,-114.06300

Latest update: March 7, 2025 10:59