Fun fact: Covered bridges were roofed to protect the wood, not the travelers.
Fun fact: Covered bridges were roofed to protect the wood, not the travelers.
Fetching data from the National Bridge Inventory...
over ST MARY RIV/PORTAGE AV W
IN SAULT STE MARIE
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This bridge has a Fair overall condition rating of 6 out of 9. While it is not classified as structurally deficient, it shows some deterioration that is being monitored.
The bridge carries 5,242 vehicles per day and is 64 years old.
Its sufficiency rating of 68.4 is above the national average of 63.6.
The NBI records a navigation clearance of 124 feet — the minimum vertical space below the bridge deck. The total height of the bridge structure (including towers, railings, and superstructure) may be higher.
For travelers with bridge anxiety
This bridge has some features that may be challenging for travelers with bridge anxiety. See the tips below for a more comfortable crossing.
This bridge is 9280 feet long — an extended crossing, several minutes.
A truss bridge — the steel framework can provide a sense of enclosure.
About 124 feet above ground — a high bridge with significant elevation.
About 5,242 vehicles cross daily — light traffic, a smooth crossing.
The deck is 34 feet wide with 2-3 lanes — moderate width.
This bridge crosses over water. Focus on the road ahead — the water is far below.
This comfort score is designed to help individuals with bridge anxiety plan their travel. All bridges in the National Bridge Inventory are regularly inspected and deemed safe for travel. This is not medical advice — if you experience severe anxiety, please consult a healthcare professional.
Year Built
1962
64 years old
Structure Type
Steel (Continuous) Truss (Thru)
Total Length
1.76 mi
2828.6 m
Deck Width
34 ft
10.5 m
Spans
8
sections between supports
Max Span
430 ft
longest unsupported section (131.1 m)
Traffic Lanes
2 lanes
Two-way traffic
Clearance Below
124 ft
navigation clearance under deck
Clearance height compared to familiar objects
Height shown is the navigation clearance below the bridge deck. The total height of the bridge structure (including towers and superstructure) may be higher.
Daily Traffic
5,242vehicles/day
46.50842°N, 84.36065°W
Steel (Continuous) Truss (Thru)
A steel truss bridge uses a framework of interconnected triangular elements. The geometric rigidity of triangles makes this design extremely efficient at distributing loads.
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Data from the National Bridge Inventory (NBI), maintained by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
Data year: 2025. Conditions may have changed since the last inspection.
This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used as the sole basis for any decisions related to bridge safety or transportation planning. Always consult official sources and local authorities for the most current data.