‘Scariest’ bridge finally reopens after £8.02m revamp | US | News

A massive bridge in the southern US state of Texas, often described as the “scariest”, was finally reopened last month in a huge boost to motorists. The Rainbow Bridge is a cantilever bridge spanning the Neches River between Port Arthur and Bridge City in the southeastern part of the state.

The huge piece of transport infrastructure is known for its steep slope, which looks particularly pronounced from some angles, and has been gaining a lot of attention online. The structure usually has a high arch to accommodate local shipping in the area. It was built with a vertical clearance of 177 feet to avoid potential problems.

Combined with the narrow lanes, it makes for a dramatic-looking ride as it crosses the water between Jefferson and Orange counties.

As of 1997, the bridge has been a one-way westbound traffic route only.

The bridge was closed for major maintenance work in March 2025, with a $10.9 million (approximately £8.03 million) contract awarded to Florida-based contractor Southern Road and Bridge.

The extensive structural work included full-depth concrete slab restoration, steel railing repairs, as well as the replacement of 1,200 rivets and four steel member pins, according to 12 News Now.

The maintenance meant drivers had to change routes and cross the nearby Veterans Memorial Bridge, which normally only goes eastbound but was temporarily adapted to accommodate the resulting changing traffic pattern.

The Texas Department of Transportation confirmed in a post to X on March 26 that work was complete and an inspection was underway to get the bridge ready for use.

It reopened to traffic the following month on Saturday 11 April, restoring an important route for motorists.

Construction of the Rainbow Bridge began in 1936 and took two years. It regularly appears on lists of the world’s most unusual and scary-looking bridges.