Adelaide Bridge - Adelaide - SA - Australia - Arch Bridges on Waymarking.com

Statement of Significance
The Adelaide Bridge, built in 1929-30, is significant as a major feature in the north/south vista along King William Road. An attractive reinforced concrete structure, with a three-hinge arch over the River Torrens and two bow-string arches over sub-portal footways, the bridge is an important feature on King William Road and in the Adelaide Parklands. (Criterion E1)

The Adelaide Bridge is the third bridge to be built on this site and reflects the devlopment of transport routes and increasing traffic through and to the city of Adelaide. (Criterion A4) (Australian Historic Theme 3.8 Moving goods and people)

This place is registered as part of the Adelaide Parklands (Register Number 6442). The Adelaide Bridge is an important place within the Parklands.

Description
HISTORY:
The Adelaide Bridge was opened in March 1931. It was the third bridge built on this site and the fifth built to provide access between the city and North Adelaide. It replaced the old City Bridge (built in 1877) which by 1920 had become prone to traffic congestion, particularly when trams were crossing it. In 1920, the City Council instructed the City Engineer to prepare a scheme for widening the bridge, but this was not done due to the projected expense. It was later decided that a new bridge should be built, and construction was commenced in 1929. The bridge was completed by the end of 1930 and opened by the Governor of South Australia in 1931.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION:
A reinforced concrete bridge with a three-hinge arch of 120 feet span over the river and two bow-string arches of 38 feet span over sub-portal footways. The bridge is the same width as King William Road, including footpaths and carriageway. It contributes to the north/south vista along King William Road and is a vital part of the appearance of the Torrens Valley and Elder Park.

Condition and Integrity
The bridge is undergoing extensive restoration work, and on completion it will be in good condition. The integrity of the bridge is high. Its appearance has been previously impaired by the installation of electricity substation gear, underneath the bridge on the northeast side, and by the erection of a pump house, on the south side. It is not known if these intrusive elements have been removed. New lights have been installed above the bridge's corner piers, and are sympathetic to its original elements. (14.12.99)

Location
King William Road, across River Torrens, Adelaide.

Taken from: (visit link)

Length of bridge: 132 feet What type of traffic does this bridge support?: pedestrians, motor vehicles What kind of gap does this bridge cross?: River Torrens Date constructed: 1929-1930 Is the bridge still in service for its original purpose?: yes Name of road or trail the bridge services: Adelaide Bridge / City Bridge Location: Adelaide Brige at King William Road, across River Torrens, Adelaide. Height of bridge: Not listed

Visit Instructions:
Please submit a photo(s) taken by you of your visit to the location (non-copyrighted photos only). GPS photos are also accepted with the location in the background, and old vacation photos are accepted. If you are not able to provide a photo, then please describe your visit or give a story about the visit. If the bridge location prevents you from taking a safe photograph, then please do not stop to take the photo. Safety is more important.

Recent Visits/Logs:

Date Logged Log User Rating   08/04/2022 froghoppin visited it 10/04/2019 themd visited it 06/03/2018 CADS11 visited it

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