costway bridge

Costway Bridge: Affordable & Durable

By Thomas JacksonApril 29, 2026

The Costway Bridge, a striking architectural marvel, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess. Spanning the picturesque Cuyahoga River in Cleveland, Ohio, this iconic structure has become an integral part of the city's skyline and a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike.

Completed in 1931, the Costway Bridge was designed by the renowned engineering firm Waddell and Hardesty. It was one of the first major bridges in the United States to feature a cantilever design, a groundbreaking approach that allowed for a longer, more elegant span without the need for intermediate supports.

The Cantilever Design: A Revolutionary Approach

The cantilever design of the Costway Bridge is a marvel of engineering. It consists of two horizontal beams, or cantilevers, that extend from each side of the river and meet in the middle, supporting the bridge's roadway. This innovative design allowed the bridge to span the river with a single, graceful arch, eliminating the need for unsightly piers in the waterway.

a white covered bridge with trees in the background and leaves on the ground around it

At the time of its construction, the Costway Bridge was one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world. Its main span measures an impressive 1,000 feet, providing a smooth, uninterrupted passage for vehicles crossing the river.

Materials and Construction

The bridge's superstructure is made primarily of steel, with concrete used for the approach spans and the massive piers that anchor the cantilevers to the riverbanks. The steel used in the bridge's construction was sourced from local mills, reflecting the region's rich industrial history.

an old red covered bridge over a grassy field

an image of a bridge going over the ocean

The construction of the Costway Bridge was a monumental undertaking. Workers had to contend with challenging river conditions and harsh weather, but their efforts resulted in a structure that has withstood the test of time, remaining a vital link between Cleveland's east and west sides for nearly a century.

Art Deco Aesthetics

In addition to its engineering innovations, the Costway Bridge is also notable for its Art Deco design elements. The bridge's elegant, streamlined appearance is characteristic of the Art Deco movement, which was at its peak during the bridge's construction.

The bridge's concrete piers are adorned with stylized, geometric patterns, while its steel towers feature intricate, decorative motifs. These design elements not only enhance the bridge's visual appeal but also serve as a reminder of the cultural and historical context in which it was built.

the underside of a bridge at night with lights reflecting off water and trees in the background

an aerial view of a bridge spanning the ocean

a large bridge spanning over the ocean on top of a hill next to a beach

a car driving down the road next to an overpass with ocean in the background

two cars driving down the highway at sunset or sunrise, taken from an elevated viewing platform

an aerial view of a large bridge spanning the width of a body of water with mountains in the background

The Costway Bridge Today

Today, the Costway Bridge continues to serve as a vital transportation link, carrying an average of 25,000 vehicles per day. It has been designated as a historic civil engineering landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers, a testament to its enduring significance.

In addition to its practical function, the Costway Bridge has also become a beloved symbol of Cleveland. It is a popular spot for photography, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the river below. The bridge's annual lighting ceremony, which illuminates its steel towers in a dazzling display of colors, is a much-anticipated event that draws thousands of spectators each year.

Preservation and Restoration Efforts

Despite its age and the wear and tear of decades of use, the Costway Bridge remains in excellent condition, thanks to ongoing maintenance and restoration efforts. In recent years, the bridge has undergone several major renovation projects, including the replacement of its original steel grating deck with a smoother, more durable concrete surface.

a long red bridge over a river with buildings in the background

cars are driving across the bridge on a cloudy day in san francisco, calif

the sun is setting behind a bridge over water with trees and bushes in front of it

a large green bridge spanning over the ocean

an aerial view of multiple roads in the country

the sun is setting behind a bridge over water with a path leading to it that leads to a beach

cars are driving on the road in front of some tall bridge structures with clouds above them

two large metal bridges over a body of water

an old train bridge spanning the width of a body of water

a long exposure shot of traffic on the bay bridge in san francisco, ca at night

the sydney harbour bridge lit up at night with lights reflecting on the water and buildings in the background

an aerial view of a bridge over a body of water

looking down at the underside of a metal structure

These preservation efforts ensure that the Costway Bridge will continue to serve Cleveland for generations to come, connecting communities and inspiring awe in all who cross its span.

As you drive or walk across the Costway Bridge, take a moment to appreciate the engineering marvel and architectural beauty that surrounds you. This iconic structure is more than just a bridge; it is a living testament to human ingenuity, a symbol of progress, and a beloved part of Cleveland's rich history.