Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, Boulder City
Facts and practical information
Spanning the Colorado River and connecting the states of Nevada and Arizona, the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge is an architectural marvel that offers breathtaking views and a testament to modern engineering. Completed in 2010, this arch bridge near Boulder City, United States, is part of the Hoover Dam Bypass project.
With its impressive characteristics, the bridge stands as one of the highest and longest arched concrete bridges in the Western Hemisphere. It rises approximately 900 feet above the river and stretches nearly 2,000 feet in length, with a 1,060-foot twin-rib concrete arch being the centerpiece of its design.
The bridge is named in honor of two American heroes: Mike O'Callaghan, a former Nevada governor and Korean War veteran, and Pat Tillman, an NFL player who left his career to join the Army Rangers and was subsequently killed in Afghanistan. Their namesakes serve as a poignant reminder of service and sacrifice, making the bridge not only a travel route but also a memorial.
For tourists, the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge provides a unique vantage point to view the iconic Hoover Dam and the surrounding canyon landscape. Pedestrians can walk along the bridge's sidewalk, capturing stunning photographs and experiencing the grandeur of the area. It is an essential stop for anyone visiting Boulder City or the Hoover Dam.
Practical for travelers and freight transport, the bridge significantly reduces travel time between the two states by rerouting traffic from the dam's winding roadways. This not only eases congestion but also enhances safety.
Visitors should note that there are parking areas and a visitor center on the Nevada side, where one can learn more about the construction and history of the bridge before taking the short walk to the pedestrian walkway.
Nevada