James River Bridge (Virginia), 1928-1982

James River Bridge (Virginia). (20 x 25.5 cm black and white albumen photo. Pasted on back of photo is a note: “Four mile bridge to span Virginia peninsula and mainland. Newport News, VA.—Historic Virginia peninsula is soon to be connected with the mainland and the Motor highways of the State by means of a bridge spanning the James River. The cost is estimated at $10,000,000. The main span across the James will provide direct connection with Newport News, Hampton, Old Point Comfort, Fort Monroe, Langley Field and further back on the Peninsula, Jamestown, Williamsburg and Yorktown. At the mainland end of this bridge two lateral spans are to cross the Nanesmond River and Chuckatick Creek which empties into the James, making it unnecessary to cross Hampton Roads by boat. Photo shows the James River Bridge showing the 300 foot span lift, looking westward.” Bridge opened in 1928 as a two lane lift-bascule bridge. When completed, it was the longest bridge [4.5 miles/7 kilometers] in the world over water. Main lift span 300ft/90m; 110ft. bascule spans. From 1928 to 1931 it carried State route 503; in 1932 U.S. 17 was aligned to pass over it. The original two-lane bridge was replaced in 1975 to 1982 by a four lane bridge.)