The
World's Longest Bridge in New Orleans
The
Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is the longest overwater highway
bridge (28 miles or 38 KM) in the world (the Guinness World Record).
The
first span was built in 1955 - 1956 and opened August 30, 1956.
The
second span was built in 1967 - 1969 and opened May 10, 1969.
The
twin spans are 80 feet apart and connected by seven crossovers
which function as pullover bays for motoring emergencies.
More
than 10 million vehicles traveled the Causeway each year.
Lake
Pontchartrain is 610 square miles and was named for the Count
de Pontchartrain, minister of the marine during the regime of
France's "Sun King" for whom Louisiana was named.
Lake
Pontchartrain and its Causeway, the world's longest bridge, comprise
one of America's most scenic attractions.
Maps:
