Blennerhassett Island Bridge

The Blennerhassett Island Bridge is a tied-arch bridge that crosses the Ohio River between Belpre Township in Ohio and Parkersburg in West Virginia. The structure features four traffic lanes and spans across the river with a graceful arched design that stands out against the landscape.

The bridge was built as part of a major transportation initiative that began in the 1960s to connect Ohio with West Virginia across the Appalachian region. Its completion provided a crucial link for regional highway connectivity.

The bridge design incorporates environmental considerations to protect Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park, including specific requirements to minimize impact on wetlands and wildlife.

The bridge carries US Route 50 and serves as a main crossing for both local and through traffic between the two states. The structure was designed to allow river navigation while blending into the natural surroundings.

The construction met special requirements to protect sightlines from the historic mansion located upstream on the island. Engineers designed the bridge to remain visually unobtrusive when viewed from the historical property.

Location: Ohio

Location: West Virginia

Official opening: June 13, 2008

GPS coordinates: 39.27670,-81.64690

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:58