Background
The Mississippi River is a critical waterway for cargo, recreation, and commerce that has been used for centuries. It is the second longest river in North America, stretching from its source in Minnesota, USA to its outlet in the Gulf of Mexico. Although it is located along the borders of 10 US states and two Canadian provinces, it is perhaps best known for flowing through Memphis, Tennessee in the “Heart of the Delta”. Memphis is home to a number of iconic bridges, which link the city to its surrounding areas and provide vital access to resources and communities. But how many bridges cross the Mississippi River in Memphis?
The Three Bridges
Memphis is home to three iconic bridges that span the Mississippi River. The first of these is the Frayser Bridge, also known as the Big River Crossing. This bridge is the longest and oldest of the three, having been opened in 1918 by the Grand Truck Pacific Railway Company. It is a two-lane, steel truss bridge that serves as a vital route for automobiles and pedestrians, and is the only bridge in Memphis that offers pedestrians unfettered views of the river. The second bridge is the Hernando DeSoto Bridge, which was completed in 1973 and features a unique array of arches that span the river. The structure was completed as part of the Interstate 55 Gateway Project and serves as the main route for interstate traffic in and out of Memphis. Lastly, there is the Harahan Bridge, completed in 1916 as a railway bridge and currently used as a pedestrian and bicycle route. This bridge is unique for its cable-stayed design and is the only bridge in Memphis that offers visitors an elevated view of the river.
Functions
These three bridges serve very different purposes. The Frayser Bridge is primarily used for vehicular and pedestrian traffic, while the DeSoto Bridge serves commuters on Interstate 55. The Harahan Bridge serves a diverse population, ranging from runners to birdwatchers. It is also the only bridge that offers visitors an elevated view of the river, making it a popular spot for photographers. In addition to serving local communities and tourists, all three of these bridges are vital to the transportation of goods and services throughout the region.
Economic Significance
The three bridges crossing the Mississippi River in Memphis offer an unprecedented level of access to the region. By providing an efficient way to move goods, people, and services across the river, the bridges are a major economic force in the city. According to the Greater Memphis Area Chamber of Commerce, the bridges are the central link between downtown Memphis and the Port of Memphis, and are used to transport up to 150,000 tons of freight every day. The economic impact of the bridges is estimated at over $100 million per year.
The Cost of Maintenance
Although these bridges are vital to the regional economy, they are also expensive to maintain. The Highways and Bridge Department of the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) estimates bridge maintenance costs for the Memphis area at $4.4 million per year. This includes the cost of lane resurfacing, painting, and other repairs necessary to keep the bridges in safe and reliable condition.
Popularity
The three bridges crossing the Mississippi River in Memphis have become popular attractions for residents and tourists alike. The Frayser Bridge in particular has become known as “Walking Bridge”, and visitors come from all around to see the views of the city below. The DeSoto Bridge is also popular, as its unique arches have caught the attention of commuters and tourists alike. Meanwhile, the Harahan Bridge has become known as a great spot for running, biking, and birdwatching.
Environmental Considerations
The three bridges crossing the Mississippi River in Memphis pose a unique challenge when it comes to conservation. The bridges block the flow of the river and disrupt the natural habitats of various species of wildlife. In order to minimize the environmental impact of the bridges, the city has enlisted the help of numerous conservation groups, such as Ducks Unlimited, who have proposed solutions such as creating fish passages and restoring native vegetation.
Structural Stability
The three bridges crossing the Mississippi River in Memphis have stood the test of time, but must still be inspected and maintained in order to ensure their longevity. The TDOT inspects each of the bridges every other year and has implemented a program to repair, replace, and maintain the bridges. The most recent inspection report for the Frayser Bridge noted the bridge is structurally sound, but that certain components needed to be replaced or repaired.
Safety Practices
The safety of the bridges is of utmost importance to the city and state, and TDOT has implemented a number of measures to ensure their safety. The bridges are equipped with sensors that detect vibrations, changes in the environment, and any structural deformation. The TDOT has also implemented a number of emergency response measures such as traffic controllers, divers, boat operators, and swift water rescue teams in the event of an emergency.
Industry Regulations and Guidelines
The Mississippi River bridges in Memphis are subject to strict regulations and guidelines, and the TDOT regularly evaluates the safety and functioning of the bridges. All drivers, including commercial carriers, must adhere to weight, height, and width restrictions to ensure the safety of both drivers and pedestrians. The TDOT also works with local stakeholders to ensure the bridges are compliant with all federal, state, and local regulations.
Enhancements
The TDOT is continually working to improve the bridges crossing the Mississippi in Memphis by renovating the current structures and implementing new infrastructure. Recently, the TDOT announced plans to invest $20 million to refurbish the Frayser Bridge, adding extra amenities such as LED lighting and pedestrian walkways. Similarly, plans are in the works to expand the existing Hernando DeSoto bridge by adding a fourth archway.
Environmental Impact
The bridges crossing the Mississippi River in Memphis provide unprecedented access to the city and its surroundings, but the environmental impacts must be considered. The bridges block the natural flow of the river and create obstacles for migratory species and aquatic wildlife. In order to minimize their impact, the City of Memphis has enlisted the help of numerous conservation groups, such as Ducks Unlimited, to help restore the area’s habitats and preserve the environment.
Cultural Significance
At nearly 100 years old, the Frayser Bridge and the Harahan Bridge have become iconic symbols of Memphis. For generations, Memphians have gathered along the river to watch the barges and take in the views of the city skyline. The bridges also serve as reminders of the city’s long and storied history, linking the old guard and new generations of Memphis natives. The three bridges crossing the Mississippi River in Memphis offer a unique vantage point of the city, and have become integral to its culture and identity.
Restoration Efforts
The bridges crossing the Mississippi River in Memphis are vital to the region and its economy, but their age and condition mean constant maintenance is necessary for them to remain standing. Fortunately, there are numerous efforts in place to preserve, protect, and enhance these bridges. The TDOT regularly inspects the bridges for signs of degradation and has implemented an extensive repair program to ensure their longevity. The city has also partnered with numerous conservation groups to protect and restore the area’s habitats.
The Future of the Bridges
As long as the bridges crossing the Mississippi in Memphis remain standing, they will continue to serve as important economic and cultural links to the region. The bridges are vital components of the transportation infrastructure, and the TDOT is committed to keeping them in safe and reliable condition. The city is also investing heavily in the future of the bridges, with plans to refurbish the Frayser Bridge and expand the DeSoto bridge, ensuring their place in Memphis will be enjoyed for generations to come.
