Construction of the bridge commenced in 1938, with the primary contract awarded to the Pacific Bridge Company. The structure opened to traffic on July 1, 1940, immediately earning the nickname "Galloping Gertie" due to the visible undulations that swept across its deck even in moderate winds.
Moisseiff's Vision: The Legacy of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge Designer
The commission held a design competition, and Moisseiff's proposal was selected for its innovative approach and perceived efficiency. The journey to construction began with the Washington State Highway Commission, which spearheaded the project to connect the Olympic Peninsula with the mainland.
The collapse was captured on film, searing the image of "Galloping Gertie" into the public consciousness and sending shockwaves through the engineering community. The destruction of the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge was not a waste; it became a pivotal moment in engineering history.
Moisseiff's Vision: The Legacy Behind Tacoma Narrows Bridge
Engineers and observers watched as the roadway twisted and swayed, revealing a fundamental misunderstanding of the forces exerted by wind on lightweight, flexible structures. Often referred to as the "Master of Suspension Bridges," Moisseiff championed the adoption of a streamlined, aerodynamic plate girder deck rather than the deep truss system that was standard for long spans at the time.
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