Completed in November 1889, the set of low-level two-lane bridges opened that December, and the Municipality of Richmond assumed responsibility for their maintenance.

On January 3, 1890, an ice sheet carried by the incoming tide destroyed the Lulu Island span, which remained out of service for most of 1890.

[3] Over the decades, river traffic found the narrow spans difficult to navigate, and the first collision causing structural damage was 1891.

[5][6] During 1909–10, 18 piles were replaced, 1,100 feet of decking was replanked, and the Lulu Island trestle approach repaired.

[7] In 1919–20, 100 feet of asphalt were laid as an experimental surface, and the turning gear for the swing spans became electrically powered.

[15] For 1942–43, major repairs included new piling in the protection piers, new dolphins, and extensive timber replacement in the Howe trusses.

5 received a new 130-foot Howe truss, new ties and deck, and solid fill replaced the approach trestles to the southeast.

[31] The new crossing configuration created a more circuitous route between Vancouver and the airport, causing traffic delays when the Moray Bridge opened for boats.