Best Bridge: Franklin Avenue Bridge
Since I grew up and still live right near the Franklin Avenue bridge, and have thus crossed it thousands of times in my life, both above and beneath, I was a little surprised to see it win the City Pages Best Bridge Award. That is, until I read the reasoning why.
While it’s nothing special to look at, the intersection on the North/East side of the bridge could easily get the worst intersection award, and, even though it’s on the National Register of Historic Places, I would trade it in for a wider more efficient bridge in a heartbeat, the saving grace, and the reason for winning the award is the perpetually beautiful trip across the bridge.
From it’s elevated position which seems stories above the many adjacent bridges, you are given a seemingly aerial perspective of downtown sparkling on a crisp evening or with thunderstorms rolling through, the river slowly flowing or frozen beneath, the banks lush with greenery in spring and summer, a wide cast of brilliant hues in fall, and a sublime harshness in winter. It is truly a diverse and ever-changing view, and an experience that constantly reminds me of the beauty of our city. (Photos)
I agree with this take. I would also add that this bridge is really cool from the river. There are awesome stairs on the East side to get you down to the water. Look up and all around and you say to yourself, “Cool bridge.” This photo maybe captures what I mean, although it’s a head-on shot.