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Fast Facts about the Rio Vista Bridge

The Rio Vista Bridge over the Sacramento River is stuck in the up position, causing a serious traffic snarl for travelers in the area.

If you're viewing on the ABC10 App, tap here for multimedia.

The Rio Vista Bridge, also known as the Helen Madere Memorial Bridge, was completed in its current form in 1960. Here are some more quick facts about it:

  • The bridge is approximately 2,890 feet in length.
  • It’s estimated to carry about 21,000 vehicles per day.
  • The bridge was officially named the Helen Madere Memorial Bridge in 1998, after a former vice mayor of Rio Vista.
  • The drawbridge, when raised, allows 135 feet of clearance. When it is lowered it only allows 18 feet of clearance.
  • Total construction cost of the bridge was $4.1 million, or about $40 million adjusted for inflation in 2018.

According to Caltrans, the bridge was raised to let a ship in around 3:30 p.m. and then would not lower. A spokesperson tells ABC10 that repair crews are aiming to reopen the bridge by 3:30 a.m. Friday, but for now the bridge will remain closed indefinitely.


Here's an inside CalTrans look at the bridge:

Before You Leave, Check This Out