Île de Ré bridge, Toll bridge in La Pallice, France.
Île de Ré bridge is a concrete and steel structure spanning the Atlantic Ocean at La Pallice in France, linking the mainland to the island of Île de Ré. It runs for 2,926 meters and rises about 42 meters above the water at its highest point, allowing ship traffic to pass beneath.
The crossing opened in May 1988, replacing a ferry service that had carried vehicles and passengers to the island before. Construction took several years and brought a permanent road link that fundamentally changed access to the island.
The structure bears its name from the island it reaches, a place known for salt marshes and oyster farming. Many locals and visitors cross by bicycle, enjoying the views over the ocean and coastline as they ride.
The crossing charges a toll that varies by season, with higher fees in summer than during the rest of the year. Dedicated lanes for cyclists and pedestrians run alongside the vehicle lanes, allowing a safe passage with good views of the sea.
Beyond carrying traffic, the structure also holds utility lines that bring drinking water and electricity to the island. The design accounts for wind load and potential seismic movement that can occur along this coast.
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