The narrow width causes problems for large vehicles that cross it, often requiring traffic going in the other direction to stop.

His signature detailing is evident in the obelisk pylons with sconced light fixtures, ornate railings, and Art Deco piers.

This existing bridge was utilized continuously during the construction process of the replacement, not only as access to the site for men and materials – assembling the box steel frames and pouring the reinforced concrete from its walkway – but also as the main support system during the completion of the arch itself.

[4] Construction was made difficult by the engineering challenges posed by the great depth of the river at the site and worse from the need to manage and accommodate the frequent and ever increasing water traffic on its surface.

Windows for "observation balconies" that were originally included in the piers, at the tops on both sides, were also sealed in concrete after closure.

[1][7] In March 2009, ODOT imposed new weight limits for vehicles crossing the bridge, after inspections revealed damage to some of the structure's floor beams.

Work began in July 2010,[10] and the bridge was temporarily closed to all traffic starting in January 2011.