subject: The Bay Bridge, an iconic structure that continues to enthrall [print this page] The Bay Bridge, an iconic structure that continues to enthrall
The Bay Bridge, or San Francisco Oakland Bay Bridge as it is formally known is a combination of structures in California's San Francisco Bay Area. With one of the most extensive spans in the world, the bridge features two decks and provides passage for an immense number of vehicles each day. The magnificent bridge, constructed by a leading contractor, commenced operation in 1936, at first carrying car traffic on the upper deck with the lower reserved for trains and trucks. However in later years the lower deck was also utilized for automobile traffic.
The bridge features two major spans each connecting the two shores with a natural projection situated at the middle of the bay. For the technically minded, the western segment reaching San Francisco features two suspension bridges placed end on end incorporating a central anchorage. The segment on the east side reaching Oakland features a truss causeway, several moderate span truss structures and a twin-tower cantilever extension. A completely new configuration is planned to replace the obsolete structures.
An informal moniker given to the bridge is The James "Sunny Jim" Rolph Bridge' but this moniker was seldom used, and its recognition only came in 1986 after the bridge's 50th anniversary celebrations. James Rolph, a former San Francisco Mayor, was the Governor of California at the time of commencement of construction of the bridge. Sadly Rolph died before the opening of the bridge, and the structure was named in his honour.
The Bay Bridge is regarded with great affection by people on both sides of the bay, as it is universally recognized as one of the iconic structures of the area. However many of the residents of Oakland and Alameda County feel a special affinity with the bridge, especially since the people of San Francisco lay claim to the Golden Gate Bridge.
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