Öland Bridge, Road bridge in Kalmar, Sweden
The Öland Bridge is a beam bridge of reinforced concrete carrying County Road 137 across the Kalmar Strait, from Jutnabben in Kalmar to Möllstorp near Färjestaden on Öland. It runs 6,072 metres in 155 spans, the six navigation spans each 130 metres wide, on flat-faced rectangular piers that rise from the water into pale arches beneath a 13-metre deck. The deck reaches 41.69 metres at its highest and 6.65 metres at its lowest, with a hump at the western end giving 36 metres of clearance for shipping.
The idea of a fixed crossing was first proposed in 1932, but construction did not begin until decades later. Crown Prince Carl Gustaf opened the structure on September 30, 1972, ending reliance on ferries between island and mainland.
The bridge is known locally as Ölandsbron and carries County Road 137, linking to the E22 on the mainland and County Road 136 on Öland. Its arrival reversed Öland's population decline: housing expanded in Färjestaden once the fixed link was decided. Near the western end, a 150-metre wooden foot and cycle bridge from Svinö to the mainland echoes the main span's form.
Drivers cross free of charge and can see water on both sides during the entire journey on clear days. Pedestrians and cyclists reach the island via a separate structure that starts at Svinö and runs alongside the main route.
The western section rises into a noticeable hump that provides 36 meters of clearance for larger vessels passing beneath. This elevation is visible from a distance and gives the crossing a recognizable rhythm as you approach the highest point.
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