Main Street Bridge, Jacksonville

The Main Street Bridge, also known as the John T. Alsop Jr. Bridge, gracefully spans the majestic St. Johns River in Jacksonville, leaving an indelible mark on the city's landscape and history. As the second bridge to connect the city across the river, it embodies the essence of progress and connectivity that has come to define the area. Carrying the weight of four lanes of traffic and designated as US 1/US 90 (SR 5/SR 10), the Main Street Bridge stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and functional beauty.

Although officially named after Mayor John T. Alsop Jr. in 1957, the bridge continues to be affectionately referred to as the Main Street Bridge, a name that resonates with both locals and visitors. It has etched itself as one of the most iconic features of Jacksonville's Downtown skyline, commanding attention and admiration.

Construction of the Main Street Bridge commenced in 1938 under the skilled hands of the Mount Vernon Bridge Company. War Department approval granted in 1936, prior to the outbreak of World War II, paved the way for this marvel of engineering. The bridge took three years to come to life, culminating in a dedication ceremony on July 17, 1941. With a vertical lift design incorporating trusses, the bridge was equipped to elegantly rise and make way for passing ships, perfectly marrying form and function.

As the only movable bridge for vehicular traffic across the St. Johns River in the Jacksonville area, the Main Street Bridge carries the torch of tradition and innovation. While other neighboring bridges transitioned to fixed spans by the close of the 20th century, this bridge continues to elevate its essence through its functional design and historical significance.