Bike lane is nice, but here comes a
ship. Notice sign says "gap in bridge." Gates swing closed.
Center section starts turning. This is a rare kind of draw bridge.
Instead of sections raising up, roadway pivots to the side. Lets
ships pass and then turns back into place. Due to precise balancing
and bearing systems, they say it only needs a 1 horsepower electric motor
to turn. It moves slowly, but surely. Amazing what they can
do. Upper bridge is West Seattle Freeway, while lower one takes local
car traffic, pedestrians and bikes. Scroll down to see bridge as
it opens.
Top photo taken 2002, lower photos 1996.
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