Constructed in 1930, it is the only bridge built by the Marsh Engineering Company of Des Moines, Iowa, in the state of Arkansas.

[1]: 6  Once it became apparent that the federal road U.S. Route 62 would replace Arkansas Highway 12 through the area, bridge interest reached a peak.

[1]: 8  Judge R. M. Ruthven concealed a damning feasibility report from the Highway Commission, which would have resulted in the bridge being built elsewhere.

[1]: 15  The bridge was dedicated on November 11, 1930, but for months the residents of Cotter continued to use the free ferry system rather than pay the toll.

[1]: 19  The Highway Department even had to threaten the community with retracted funding unless the residents began using the bridge.