Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Happy 70th, Story Bridge!


The Story Bridge, one of Brisbane’s most recognizable structural icons, turns seventy today.  Built as an Australian public works project during the Great Depression, it took five years to complete, and opened to traffic on July 6, 1940.  At twenty-two stories high, this steel and concrete behemoth connects Fortitude Valley, on my side of the city, to Kangaroo Point, on the south side.  I drive across it every day on my way to the hospital and often make use of the pedestrian lanes during my runs.  The Story Bridge may not be as fancy or sleek as its more modern counterparts, but it is one of my favorite pieces of architecture in Brisbane.  Its massive steal beams, sharp angles, and imposing presence are a reminder of life in another era.  It’s simply breathtaking.

*For more info, check out the Brisbane Landmarks page on ourbrisbane.com.

*To view a photo gallery with some great shots of the bridge, including construction photos, check out this page in the brisbanetimes.com.au.

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