Construction and Opening
Construction of the $50 million bridge began in February 1967, with Robert Mosher as the principal architect. After approximately two years of construction, the bridge opened to traffic on August 3, 1969, during the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the founding of San Diego San Diego–Coronado Bridge – Wikipedia. Governor Ronald Reagan provided the dedication address at the bridge’s dedication ceremony on August 2, 1969.
Engineering Marvel
The bridge is an impressive engineering feat, measuring 11,179 feet long (3,407 meters or 2.1 miles). One of its most distinctive features is its design: the bridge ascends from Coronado at a 4.67 percent grade before curving 80 degrees toward San Diego. This characteristic curve, along with its girder supports, makes it a recognizable San Diego landmark.
Impact on Accessibility
Before the bridge’s construction, access to Coronado was primarily by ferry. The 1969 completion of the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge offered a new level of accessibility to Coronado Island. The bridge’s opening was met with enthusiasm – on the first day, more than 40,000 people crossed it, with over 3,000 crossing in just the first hour.
Historical Context
The bridge’s construction coincided with significant development in the area. Dredging of San Diego Bay occurred alongside the bridge construction from 1967-1969, and shortly after the bridge opened, the first tower at the Coronado Shores Towers was completed in 1971.
Controversial Origins
Despite its iconic status today, the bridge had controversial beginnings. There was initially some opposition to the bridge project, though it was eventually welcomed as part of the community. The bridge transformed Coronado from a relatively isolated island community accessible mainly by ferry into a more connected part of the greater San Diego area.
The Coronado Bridge stands today as both a vital transportation link and an architectural landmark, representing a significant chapter in San Diego’s development during the late 1960s.
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