Pont François-Mitterrand, Road bridge in Bègles, France
The François-Mitterrand Bridge is a prestressed concrete road bridge that crosses the Garonne River, linking Bègles to Bouliac. It carries four traffic lanes of the N230 ring road and connects major motorway routes around Bordeaux.
Construction started in 1992 and the structure opened to traffic in 1993 as Pont d'Arcins. It was renamed in 1997 to honor a former French president.
Locals call this crossing the 'slanted bridge' because of how it angles across the water in an unusual way. This informal name captures how residents naturally describe the structure in everyday conversation.
The crossing is a major traffic route connecting the A63 and A10 motorways, so expect steady vehicle flow at most times. Early morning or evening hours outside rush periods tend to have lighter congestion.
The design deliberately avoided placing pillars in the riverbed, which is why it crosses at an angle rather than straight across. This engineering choice kept the waterway clear for shipping while creating the bridge's distinctive slanted form.
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