Morrison Bridge

The Morrison Bridge is a bascule bridge that spans the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon.

The bridge was completed on May 24, 1958 at a cost of $12.9 million. In 1961, Interstate 5 and Interstate 84 ramps were added. The steel grating on the bascule deck is scheduled for replacement sometime in the near future. Access for bicycles and pedestrians will be improved in a $1.75 million project scheduled for 2008. Multnomah County estimates a major seismic upgrade around 2020.

The total length of the bridge is 760 feet with a 284 ft draw span. The bridge is one of the largest mechanical structures in Oregon. 36 ft. tall gears drive 940 ton counterweights located inside each of the piers. The 69 ft. clearance limits openings to about 30 times a month. It currently carries 50,000 vehicles daily on six lanes. The canted windows of the control tower give the distinctive look of air traffic control towers. It is named after John L. Morrison, a Scottish immigrant who built the first home on Morrison street.

Photo 142, Sept 2006

Morrison Bridge, Portland, Oregon

Photo 143, Sept 2006

Morrison Bridge, Portland, Oregon

Photo 144, Sept 2006