Seattle, Washington / Landmarks
University Bridge
A historic double-leaf bascule bridge completed in 1919, connecting Lake Union and Portage Bay. This National Register of Historic Places landmark features a movable steel main span and a clearance of 42.5 feet.
Where is the University Bridge located?
The University Bridge is located in Seattle, where it spans Lake Union and Portage Bay at Eastlake and 10th Avenue Northeast.
What is the University Bridge known for?
It is a historic double-leaf bascule (movable) bridge that has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982.
When was the bridge built?
Construction of the University Bridge was completed in June 1919.
What are the architectural features of the bridge?
The bridge consists of four structure types: a concrete north approach (north of Pacific St), a steel north approach (south of Pacific St), a steel bascule movable main span, and a steel south approach.
Has the bridge undergone any major renovations?
Yes, it was widened and rebuilt in 1932–1933, with timber decking replaced by open-grid steel. Additionally, computer and electrical upgrades were completed in 2014.
What should I check before going?
Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.
What to know
The University Bridge is a critical transit link in Seattle that spans the waters of Lake Union and Portage Bay. Completed in June 1919, the structure was financed through bonds approved by Seattle voters to establish a drawbridge at this location. It has been recognized for its historical significance and has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982. Architecturally, the bridge is composed of four distinct structure types. The main span is a movable steel bascule, specifically a double-leaf bascule type, which allows marine traffic to pass beneath a clearance of 42.5 feet. The bridge also includes a south approach made of steel and a north approach that transitions from steel to concrete north of Pacific Street. Over the decades, the bridge has undergone significant transformations to meet growing urban needs. In 1932 and 1933, the bridge was widened and its original timber decking was replaced with an open-grid steel surface. The north approach, which originally utilized timber trestles in 1919, was also replaced with concrete and steel during the early 1930s. Modern updates continue to ensure the bridge remains operational. Computer and electrical upgrades were completed in 2014, and King County maintains 30 county-owned poles for transit infrastructure on the span. Currently, the city is conducting a planning study, funded by the 2015 Levy to Move Seattle, to determine the rehabilitation or replacement of the northern concrete section.
Visitor tips
- Look down at the road surface to see the open-grid steel decking installed in the 1930s.
- Visit during a bridge opening to see the double-leaf bascule mechanism in action.
- Allow extra time if walking during peak transit hours, as the bridge carries significant county transit infrastructure.
Nearby context
The University Bridge serves as a primary artery crossing Lake Union at Eastlake and 10th Avenue Northeast, linking the city center with the University District.
Sources
Evidence and links
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University Bridge Planning Study
This planning study is funded by the Levy to Move Seattle, approved by voters in 2015.
seattle.gov -
University Bridge Trolley Pole Replacement Project
University Bridge spans over the water connecting Lake Union and Portage Bay.
kingcounty.gov -
Latona Bridge and University Bridge (Seattle)
Seattle voters had approved the sale of bonds to finance a new drawbridge at the site
historylink.org