The bridge carries 2.6 miles (4.2 km) of State Highway 146 (SH 146), between the cities of Baytown and La Porte[3] (east of Houston).

[6] In October 1985, the Texas Highway Department announced the project and estimated it would take two years to complete.

The contract was then awarded to a South African company, which caused complaints because of the country's apartheid policies.

Finally, on September 27, 1995, the Fred Hartman Bridge had its grand opening ceremony, which was hosted by Baytown and La Porte chambers of commerce.

Notable guests include George W. Bush, Miss Texas 1995, William Burnett, and the Hartman family.