No matter how many times you’ve driven over it, there’s no denying this incredible view. The Gold Star Memorial Bridge crosses the peaceful waters of the Thames River and allows easy access between New London and Groton. Even if you see this stunning structure daily, you can’t ignore its magnificent features. Let’s look even closer at the longest, most impressive bridge in Connecticut. This structure is absolutely fascinating.
The Gold Star Memorial Bridge spans an impressive 6,000 feet.
Victor-ny/Wikimedia Commons But that’s not the only amazing thing about it.
With more than 1,000,000 square feet of deck area, The Goldstar is also the largest structure in the state.
Pi.1415926535/Wikimedia Commons
About 117,000 vehicles drive across this 11-lane bridge every day!
thisisbossi/Flickr
The original bridge was completed in 1943, but it has changed significantly throughout the years.
LeanneMarie1215/Flickr In the beginning, it was just a simple 3.6-mile four-lane bypass connecting New London and Groton.
The bridge was renamed in 1951 to honor fallen Connecticut soldiers who fought in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War.
Bohao Zhao/Wikimedia Commons
In 1972, construction workers started building the second span of the bridge. But a dangerous accident occurred.
Iracaz/Wikimedia Commons At the time, the US Coast Guard Academy’s three-masted ship was returning to New London. As she sailed under the bridge, her masts got caught in the safety netting underneath. Suddenly, both masts snapped off, forcing the ship to undergo emergency repairs.
The bridge’s second span was completed in 1973. Today, you can even stroll along the peaceful pedestrian path and soak up the sights.
Victor-ny/Wikimedia Commons
There’s no doubt about it – this fantastic structure is absolutely spectacular.
GPA Photo Archive/Flickr
Do you know any other fun facts about the longest bridge in Connecticut? If so, we want to hear them! Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Victor-ny/Wikimedia Commons
But that’s not the only amazing thing about it.
Pi.1415926535/Wikimedia Commons
thisisbossi/Flickr
LeanneMarie1215/Flickr
In the beginning, it was just a simple 3.6-mile four-lane bypass connecting New London and Groton.
Bohao Zhao/Wikimedia Commons
Iracaz/Wikimedia Commons
At the time, the US Coast Guard Academy’s three-masted ship was returning to New London. As she sailed under the bridge, her masts got caught in the safety netting underneath. Suddenly, both masts snapped off, forcing the ship to undergo emergency repairs.
GPA Photo Archive/Flickr
If you want to explore more interesting places, check out these 10 fascinating historic landmarks in Connecticut.
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Address: Gold Star Memorial Bridge, Groton, CT, USA
