Historic Hood River
Bridge Update
Notes
We’ve seen similar images of the Hood River White Salmon Interstate bridge before, but based on recent research I can add a few important points.
Note the date of this C. S. Reeves image is December 6, 1924. That was the day the bridge first opened for traffic. If you look carefully there is some evidence of cars on the bridge. This image was probably captured early in the day, before this famous image. Contemporary accounts acknowledged there was still some construction going on which seems consistent with this view.
I’ve also learned the Oregon approach (foreground of the lower image) was considered a temporary structure, as was the wooden deck. The intent was to replace them as soon as the bridge generated enough revenue. The replacement eventually happened in 1937-1940, when the Bonneville Dam project necessitated replacing both of the approaches and adding a lift span.
You’ve probably heard the “replacement bridge project” recently received a significant federal grant so plans to replace this hundred year old structure are moving forward. The plan is to open the new bridge on October 1, 2029, at 10 AM I am told. Put it on your calendar. My hope is to lead a parade of antique cars across the old bridge as it closes to traffic, retiring after a long and productive life.
Dale Nicol
Thanks for the additional information and great photo’s!
I hope I am still alive in 2029 to see the opening of the replacement bridge.
L.E.
Thanks Arthur. Like Dale, I hope to see your hope. Thank you to all those who worked to receive the grant.
Pat A
Sounds great.
I have my 1st car(40 years now) and would love to join you crossing the bridge!
Yes sir…On my calendar
Nancy Roach
Will a 27 year old car count? On the calendar!
Arthur Babitz
Maybe we need a parade with one car from every year the bridge was open! Dibs on 1927.
Tracey Tomashpol
An update from the early 2024 remarks… based on the most recent discussions, there may not even be funding to hit an “in water” construction date of October 2027, with a subsequent 4 to 5 year construction phase. So I’d suggest updating your calendars for that parade of antique cards from October 2029 to (maybe) October 2032.
ArthurB
Haha, I guess I should have known not to predict the future on a history website!