Hawthorne Bridge

Spanning the serene waters of the Willamette River, the Hawthorne Bridge is not just a vital transportation link in Portland, Oregon, but also a historic landmark that tells the story of the city's growth and evolution. As the oldest vertical-lift bridge still in operation in the United States, this iconic structure offers both a functional role and a scenic experience for locals and tourists alike.

A Journey Through Time

The Hawthorne Bridge, which connects Hawthorne Boulevard and Madison Street, was opened on December 19, 1910, replacing the second Madison Street Bridge. Its construction cost $511,000, a significant sum for the time, reflecting the importance of the bridge to the city's infrastructure. Named after Dr. J.C. Hawthorne, a co-founder of Oregon's first mental hospital, the bridge has stood as a testament to Portland's commitment to progress and connectivity.

Designed by the engineering firm Waddell & Harrington, who were also responsible for the Steel and Interstate bridges, the Hawthorne Bridge features a truss design with a vertical lift span. The modern-day vertical-lift bridge design was invented by John Alexander Low Waddell, making the Hawthorne Bridge a pioneering structure in bridge engineering.

Architectural Marvel

The bridge is a marvel of early 20th-century engineering. It consists of five fixed spans and one 244-foot-long vertical-lift span, making its total length 1,382 feet. Originally 63 feet wide, the bridge's sidewalks were widened to 10 feet in 1998, increasing the overall width to 73 feet. This renovation not only improved safety for pedestrians and cyclists but also enhanced the bridge's utility as a major commuter route.

The vertical lift is operated by two 150-horsepower motors, which raise and lower the 880,000-pound counterweights suspended from the two 165-foot-tall towers. This mechanism allows the bridge to accommodate river traffic, lifting an average of 120 times per month. During periods of low river levels, the bridge is raised even more frequently, averaging 200 times per month.

A Hub for Commuters

Today, the Hawthorne Bridge is the busiest bicycle bridge in Oregon, with over 8,000 cyclists crossing it daily. It also serves around 800 TriMet buses, carrying approximately 17,400 riders each day. The bridge's importance to the city's transportation network cannot be overstated, as it facilitates the movement of 30,500 vehicles on an average day.

In 1998, the bridge underwent a significant $21 million renovation, which included replacing the steel-grated deck and repainting the structure. The original lead-based paint was removed and replaced with three layers of new paint, designed to last for 30 years. This renovation also saw the bridge's color change from yellow-gold ochre to the current green with red trim, giving it a fresh and distinctive appearance.

A Bridge to the Future

The Hawthorne Bridge's design has always been forward-thinking. The outer lanes' deck, replaced during the 1998-99 renovation, was built strong enough to support modern streetcars or light rail trains. Although the Tilikum Crossing was later chosen for the Milwaukie MAX line, the Hawthorne Bridge remains a symbol of Portland's progressive spirit and adaptability.

In August 2012, an automated real-time bicycle counter was installed on the bridge, the first of its kind in a U.S. city. Donated by the non-profit group Cycle Oregon, this counter highlighted the bridge's role in promoting sustainable transportation. Although the counter broke in 2018 and has not been repaired, its installation marked a significant milestone in the bridge's history.

A Cultural Icon

The Hawthorne Bridge has also found its place in popular culture. It is mentioned in Elliott Smith's song I Can't Answer You Anymore and in Mark Z. Danielewski's novel House of Leaves. In the 2003 film The Hunted, a scene set on the bridge featured two articulated buses remodeled to resemble a MAX train, complete with fake overhead lines and a sprinkler system to simulate rain.

Connecting Communities

In 2001, the bridge's sidewalks were connected to the Eastbank Esplanade, further integrating it into the city's network of pedestrian and cycling pathways. This connection has made the bridge a favorite route for commuters and recreational users alike, offering stunning views of the Willamette River and the Portland skyline.

In conclusion, the Hawthorne Bridge is more than just a means of crossing the Willamette River; it is a living piece of Portland's history and a vital artery in the city's transportation system. Its blend of historical significance, architectural innovation, and modern utility makes it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the vibrant city of Portland.