Bridges, whether they are long or short, serve as significant examples of human creativity because innovation has no boundaries. They not only span distances but also connect various cultures, economies, and aspirations. Bridges, ranging from the longest to the shortest, represent remarkable achievements in architecture, structural engineering, and, of course, innovation. These structures showcase the brilliance of modern engineering and serve as testaments to human ingenuity. This guide explores the 11 longest bridges in the world. Trust me, it’s an exciting tour. Let’s travel the world in an instant.
The Longest Bridge in the World
The following are some of the longest bridges in the world:
#1. Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, China
The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge is a notable viaduct in China. The viaduct marvel, spanning a distance of 102 miles, serves as a crucial component of China’s high-speed rail network. It elegantly navigates through the wetlands and rivers of Jiangsu Province. The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China was successfully constructed in 2010.
The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge serves as a vital element within the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway, which stands as one of China’s most notable railway endeavors. The infrastructure in question plays a vital role in connecting the prominent economic and cultural hubs of Beijing and Shanghai, which are both significant cities in China.
A complex terrain with wetlands, rivers, and lakes was the reason for building the bridge. The use of sophisticated engineering methods and materials supports the high-speed rail system. The viaduct is specifically designed to facilitate smooth and high-speed train travel, thereby ensuring efficient and rapid transportation for passengers.
In addition to serving its functional purpose, the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge has garnered attention from tourists and enthusiasts who appreciate its remarkable engineering feat. Visitors have the opportunity to admire the expansive dimensions of the bridge and gain an appreciation for the meticulous intricacies involved in its construction.
The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge is a notable representation of China’s ambitious infrastructure initiatives, showcasing its technological advancements and dedication to establishing efficient and sustainable transportation systems. The infrastructure in question remains a vital connection for high-speed rail transportation, showcasing the successful integration of exceptional engineering and environmental consciousness.
#2. Changhua-Kaohsiung Viaduct, Taiwan
The Changhua-Kaohsiung Viaduct, often called the Changhua-Kaohsiung Elevated Railway, is a significant infrastructure undertaking in Taiwan. This bridge connects the cities of Changhua and Kaohsiung in Taiwan, spanning a remarkable 98 miles and allowing for effective high-speed train transport. The Changhua-Kaohsiung Viaduct, which connects the cities of Changhua and Kaohsiung, is a crucial part of Taiwan’s high-speed rail network. It is essential for providing quick and effective rail service between these two important cities. It provides quick as well as effective rail service between these two important cities.
In the viaduct design, numerous columns or piers support a continuous elevated railway line. This elevated construction enables the railway to avoid difficult terrain, road crossings, and other obstructions, resulting in smoother and quicker rail travel.
The viaduct drastically cuts the amount of time it takes to travel between Changhua and Kaohsiung by establishing a high-speed rail connection, encouraging effective and convenient transit for both people and freight.
To ensure stability, safety, and structural integrity throughout its considerable span, a large-scale viaduct needed the use of sophisticated engineering techniques during construction. The construction of the viaduct indicates Taiwan’s capacity to carry out challenging infrastructure projects.
By enabling the movement of people and goods between significant urban centers, the Changhua-Kaohsiung Viaduct has had a positive impact on economic growth. Additionally, it has helped to improve business and tourism in the areas it serves.
#3. Tianjin Grand Bridge, China
The Tianjin Grand Bridge, which spans around 70 miles and connects Tianjin’s urban and rural areas with its waterways, is a vital piece of China’s dynamic rail network. The amazing span of the bridge spans both Tianjin’s urban and rural areas. This integration demonstrates its adaptability in smoothly navigating a variety of terrains, including urban areas, canals, and natural settings. The Tianjin Grand Bridge is a part of China’s high-speed rail network. It is an essential part of the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway, which connects two of the most important cities in China and is famous for its effectiveness and cutting-edge technology.
#4. Tiajin Grand Bridge, China
The Tianjin Grand Bridge holds a prominent position among the notable bridges in China, showcasing remarkable engineering prowess. The viaduct is a large-scale infrastructure project that spans the entirety of Tianjin, serving as a vital link between different sections of the urban landscape. The bridge is famous for its distinction as one of the longest bridges in the world. It has a total length of approximately 113.7 kilometers (70.6 miles), which positions it among the longest bridges globally.
The bridge functions primarily as a railway bridge, designed to accommodate both passenger and freight trains. The extensive high-speed rail network in China incorporates it as an integral component.
The construction of the bridge occurred in multiple phases, wherein various sections were built at different points in time. The structure is comprised of multiple spans and segments, showcasing its remarkable achievement in the fields of engineering and construction.
#5. Bang Na Expressway, Thailand
The Bang Na Expressway, alternatively referred to as the Bang Na-Bang Pakong Expressway, is a prominent elevated highway situated in Thailand. The elevated roadway in question is recognized as one of the most extensive globally. It also plays a vital role as a transportation connection within the Bangkok metropolitan region.
The commencement of the Bang Na Expressway’s construction took place during the latter part of the 1990s, with its finalization occurring in the year 2000. The purpose of its construction was to mitigate traffic congestion and enhance transportation connectivity between central Bangkok and the eastern provinces of Thailand. It also offers a more efficient pathway for commuters traveling between Bangkok and the eastern provinces.
The Bang Na Expressway is classified as a toll road, necessitating drivers to remit a fee in order to access its services. The toll system serves the purpose of financing the ongoing maintenance as well as the operation of the expressway.
#6. Runyang Yangtze River Bridge
The Runyang Yangtze River Bridge is a complex of bridges and interchanges that spans the Yangtze River in China. It is located in Jiangsu province and serves as a vital transportation link, connecting the city of Yangzhou on the northern side of the river with the city of Yangtze on the southern side. The construction of the Runyang Yangtze River Bridge complex was a significant engineering endeavor due to the challenging navigation conditions and the need to maintain a navigable channel for large vessels passing through the river.
The bridge complex has greatly improved connectivity between the cities on both sides of the Yangtze River and has contributed to the economic development of the region. The completion of the Runyang Yangtze River Bridge complex has eased traffic congestion and reduced travel times between various destinations in Jiangsu Province. Additionally, the bridges have become notable landmarks due to their architectural and engineering significance.
#7. Runyang Yangtze River Bridge
The Runyang Yangtze River Bridge complex plays a vital role in improving transportation connectivity and facilitating economic development in the Yangtze River Delta region. The bridges significantly reduce travel time and distance between Yangzhou and Yangtai, as well as contribute to the overall transportation network in China. The Runyang Bridge Complex consists of two major bridges, the Runyang North Bridge and the Runyang South Bridge, along with several approach bridges and interchanges. The bridges are cable-stayed and designed to accommodate both road and rail traffic. The Runyang Yangtze River Bridge complex also offers picturesque views of the Yangtze River and the surrounding landscape, making it a notable landmark and a popular spot for sightseeing.
#8. Jiaozhou Bay Bridge
The Jiaozhou Bay Bridge, also known as the Qingdao Haiwan Bridge, is a remarkable bridge located in China that connects the city of Qingdao in Shandong Province to the district of Huangdao. The Jiaozhou Bay Bridge is an impressive example of engineering, stretching across the waters of Jiaozhou Bay for a total length of about 16.6 miles (26.7 kilometers). At the time of its completion, it held the record for being the longest bridge over water in the world. The bridge is a combination of cable-stayed spans and trestle sections, with the main span being a cable-stayed segment that crosses the main body of water. The construction process was a significant engineering achievement, as the bridge was built across a complex and dynamic marine environment, including tidal fluctuations and challenging soil conditions.
The primary purpose of the Jiaozhou Bay Bridge is to provide a direct transportation link between Qingdao and Huangdao, which are located on opposite sides of Jiaozhou Bay. The bridge improves connectivity as well as accessibility between these areas. It also promote economic development, tourism, and trade.
Jiaozhou Bay Bridge has contributed to the growth of the Qingdao region by facilitating the easier movement of goods, people, and services between the two sides of the bay. It has helped reduce travel time and transportation costs, thus boosting economic activity in the surrounding areas.
Longest Bridge in the World Over Water
The longest bridge in the world over water is the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China. This bridge is part of the Beijing-Shanghai High-Speed Railway and stretches approximately 164.8 kilometers (102.4 miles) in length. It connects the cities of Danyang and Kunshan and runs through the Yangtze River Delta.
The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge was completed in 2010 and serves as a vital component of China’s extensive high-speed rail network, allowing trains to travel at high speeds across a vast distance. The bridge’s construction showcases China’s engineering prowess and its commitment to developing advanced transportation infrastructure. The bridge has had a profound impact on China’s transportation system by significantly reducing travel time between Beijing and Shanghai. The high-speed trains that use the bridge can reach speeds of up to 350 km/h (217 mph). This makes it possible to cover the distance between the two cities in around four to five hours. The construction of the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge is a testament to China’s engineering capabilities. It showcases the country’s ability to tackle complex and ambitious infrastructure projects.
Underwater Longest Bridge in the World
The following are some of the longest bridges in the world:
#1. Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel (USA)
This bridge-tunnel complex connects Virginia’s Eastern Shore with the mainland. It consists of a series of bridges, tunnels, and causeway sections. It also stretches approximately 37 kilometers (23 miles) across the Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel is a remarkable engineering feat that connects Virginia’s Eastern Shore with the mainland. It includes a series of low-level trestles, two one-mile-long tunnels, and two high-level bridges. The bridge-tunnel complex crosses the Chesapeake Bay, providing a vital link for transportation between the two sides.
#2. Donghai Bridge (China)
The Donghai Bridge is a series of bridges and tunnels connecting Shanghai to the Yangshan Deep-Water Port in China. The total length of the bridge is around 32.5 kilometers (20.2 miles), with a significant portion of it underwater. The Donghai Bridge is a complex of bridges and tunnels that connect mainland Shanghai with Yangshan Deep-Water Port. This is located on a group of islands in the East China Sea. The bridge system includes cable-stayed sections and underwater tunnels, making it one of the longest sea bridges in the world. It plays a crucial role in enhancing transportation and trade in the Shanghai region.
#3. Seikan Tunnel (Japan)
The Seikan Tunnel is an underwater railway tunnel in Japan that connects the islands of Honshu and Hokkaido. While it is primarily a railway tunnel, it does carry vehicles as well. The total length of the tunnel is approximately 53.85 kilometers (33.5 miles). The Seikan Tunnel is the longest underwater tunnel in the world. It connects the Japanese islands of Honshu and Hokkaido, primarily serving as a railway tunnel for the Seikan Tunnel Line.
#4. Øresund Bridge (Sweden-Denmark)
The Øresund Bridge connects the Swedish city of Malmö with the Danish capital, Copenhagen. It’s a combined road and rail bridge that includes an underwater tunnel section, making the total length of the bridge system about 16 kilometers (9.9 miles). The Øresund Bridge is an iconic structure that spans the Øresund Strait. It connect the cities of Malmö, Sweden, and Copenhagen, Denmark. The bridge features both road and rail components, and it also includes a tunnel section. It has significantly improved connectivity and travel between the two countries.
#5. Hangzhou Bay Bridge (China)
The Hangzhou Bay Bridge is a long highway bridge that spans Hangzhou Bay, connecting the municipalities of Jiaxing and Ningbo in Zhejiang Province, China. The total length of the bridge is around 35.67 kilometers (22.2 miles). The Hangzhou Bay Bridge is a significant bridge that crosses Hangzhou Bay, connecting the cities of Jiaxing and Ningbo. It is a cable-stayed bridge with a main span of about 448 meters, and it significantly reduces travel time between the two cities. The bridge has played a vital role in regional development and transportation.
Longest Bridge in Louisiana
The longest bridge in Louisiana is the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. It consists of two parallel bridges that span Lake Pontchartrain and connect Metairie (a suburb of New Orleans) to Mandeville on the North Shore. The total length of the Causeway is approximately 24 miles (38.4 kilometers). It’s one of the longest continuous bridges over water in the world. It connects the southern shore of the lake in Metairie to the northern shore in Mandeville. More than 9,000 concrete pilings driven into the lakebed support the bridges. The roadway is composed of precast concrete segments, and the spans are supported by numerous piers.
The design allows for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes and lake conditions. Crossing the Causeway offers a unique driving experience, as you’re surrounded by water on both sides, giving a sensation of driving on the lake itself. The bridges are divided into two lanes in each direction, with regular crossovers and emergency stopping areas.
Manchac Swamp Bridge
The Manchac Swamp Bridge is a dual concrete trestle bridge located in close proximity to Manchac, within the state of Louisiana, in the United States. The bridge spans a distance of 22.80 miles (36.69 km). It’s generally one of the most extensive bridges globally that crosses over water. Additionally, it holds the distinction of being the longest bridge within the Interstate Highway System. It has been asserted by certain sources that this particular bridge holds the distinction of being the longest toll-free road bridge globally.
The bridge serves as a transportation structure for Interstate 55 and U.S. Route 51, facilitating their passage over the Manchac Swamp, located in Louisiana. This bridge accounts for approximately one-third of the total length of the highway. It spans approximately 66 miles (106 km) within the state of Louisiana. The construction of the project commenced in 1979, with the piles being driven to a depth of 250 feet (76 m) below the swamp. The total cost of the span amounted to $7 million per mile ($4.3 million/km) at that time, which is equivalent to $21.4 million per mile ($13 million/km) in 2021.
Where Is the Longest Bridge in the United States?
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in Louisiana is the longest bridge in the United States. It stretches for around 24 miles (38.42 kilometers) in total length. It’s made up of two parallel bridges that go across Lake Pontchartrain.
Where Is the Longest Bridge Over Water Located?
The longest bridge over water is the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China. It stretches for about 102.4 miles (165 kilometers) and is primarily used for high-speed rail traffic.
Where in the US Is a 24-Mile Bridge?
Louisiana. The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in Louisiana is a notable example of a 24-mile bridge in the United States. The structure consists of two parallel bridges that extend across Lake Pontchartrain, measuring approximately 24 miles (38.42 kilometers). The causeway serves as a crucial transportation connection between the cities of Metairie and Mandeville. These are cities within the New Orleans metropolitan area. The bridge in question holds the distinction of being among the longest bridges globally, renowned for its remarkable span.
What Is the Tallest Bridge in The US?
The tallest bridge in the United States is the Foresthill Bridge, located in California. It has a height of approximately 730 feet (222 meters) above the American River
What Is the Largest Natural Bridge in the United States?
The largest natural bridge in the United States is the Rainbow Bridge, located in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in southern Utah. Rainbow Bridge has a height of about 290 feet (88 meters) and spans a width of approximately 275 feet (84 meters). It is considered one of the world’s largest natural bridges and is a significant geological and cultural landmark. Visitors often access Rainbow Bridge by boat or by hiking a trail from Lake Powell
What Bridge in the US Goes Underwater?
One of the notable bridges in the United States that goes underwater is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. It connects the Delmarva Peninsula (Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia) to Virginia Beach and Norfolk, Virginia, crossing the mouth of the Chesapeake Bay. The bridge tunnel is a complex of bridges, tunnels, and causeways that includes two separate tunnels that pass under the water, allowing vehicles to travel both over and under the bay.
This engineering marvel is approximately 23 miles (37 kilometers) long and consists of a series of low-level trestles, two one-mile-long tunnels that pass under the bay, and multiple high-level bridges. It offers a unique experience of driving underwater for a portion of the journey
What State Has the Most Bridges in the US?
Pennsylvania has historically been known to have one of the highest numbers of bridges in the United States. This is due to its extensive network of highways, waterways, and varied topography. The state’s combination of urban areas, rural regions, and water bodies has led to the construction of numerous bridges to facilitate transportation.
Is the 7 Miles Bridge the Longest Bridge in the World?
No, the Seven Mile Bridge is not the longest bridge in the world. The Seven Mile Bridge is located in the Florida Keys and connects Knight’s Key (part of the city of Marathon, Florida) to Little Duck Key. It is approximately 6.79 miles (10.94 kilometers) long. On the other hand, the longest bridge in the world is the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China. This stretches for about 102.4 miles (165 kilometers) and primarily carries high-speed rail traffic.
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