Built in 1917, it has an opening span of 218 ft (66 m)[citation needed] and a total length of 2,854 ft (870 m).[2] The approaches of the bridge were originally timber trestles.[3] It also carried a streetcar. In 1939, the timber approach spans of the Ballard Bridge were replaced as a Public Works Administration project. The deck was surfaced with concrete and the rails for the streetcar were removed.[4] In 1982, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.[1][5]
In recent years bicyclists have complained that improvements are needed to address safety concerns.[6][7]
In 2024, work began on seismic improvements to the bridge structure, including installing ground anchors and other safety features.[8] The project shut down the bridge to vehicular traffic over several weekends in September and October.[9]
