What is the Rehoboth Beach Bridge?
The Rehoboth Beach Bridge, officially known as the Charles W. Cullen Bridge, is a cable-stayed bridge located within Delaware Seashore State Park. This impressive structure spans the Indian River Inlet, connecting the coastal communities of Dewey Beach to the north and Bethany Beach to the south.
What are the Key Specifications of the Rehoboth Beach Bridge?
The Rehoboth Beach Bridge boasts the following key specifications:
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Length | 2,600 feet (792 meters) |
| Width | 107.66 feet (32.81 meters) |
| Span | 950 feet (290 meters) |
| Clearance | 45 feet (14 meters) |
| Pylons | 4 pylon towers |
| Stays | 152 stays supporting the bridge |
The bridge is designed to last 100 years and has a fiber-optic system that monitors it for any issues that could affect its structural integrity.
How Does the Rehoboth Beach Bridge Serve Travelers?
The Rehoboth Beach Bridge plays a crucial role in connecting the coastal communities of Delaware. It carries four 12-foot (3.7-meter) lanes of traffic, with two lanes in each direction. Additionally, the bridge features a 4-foot (1.2-meter) interior and 10-foot (3-meter) exterior shoulder in each direction, as well as a 12-foot (3.7-meter)-wide sidewalk on the east side for pedestrians and bicycles.
What is the History of the Rehoboth Beach Bridge?
The Rehoboth Beach Bridge is the fourth bridge to be named in honor of Charles W. Cullen, a lawyer and judge from Georgetown who served on the Delaware State Highway Commission from 1930 to 1940. The previous bridges at the Indian River Inlet were also named after Cullen, reflecting his significant contributions to the state’s transportation infrastructure.
How Can Visitors Access and Enjoy the Rehoboth Beach Bridge?
The Rehoboth Beach Bridge provides access to the beautiful beaches and natural areas of Delaware Seashore State Park. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views from the bridge’s sidewalk, which offers a unique perspective of the inlet and the surrounding coastal landscape. Additionally, the bridge’s east side provides direct access to the beach, where visitors can relax, swim, or engage in various beach-related activities.
What is the Current Status of the Rehoboth Beach Bridge?
As of March 2024, there have been instances of water breaching the dunes north of the Rehoboth Beach Bridge. The Delaware Department of Transportation has been working to restore the dunes and ensure the continued integrity of the bridge and the surrounding coastal environment.
Conclusion
The Rehoboth Beach Bridge is a vital piece of infrastructure that connects the coastal communities of Delaware, providing access to the stunning beaches and natural areas of Delaware Seashore State Park. With its impressive specifications, rich history, and ongoing maintenance efforts, the Rehoboth Beach Bridge continues to serve as a gateway for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
References:
– Delaware Seashore State Park. (n.d.). Delaware Seashore State Park. Retrieved from https://destateparks.com/Beaches/DelawareSeashore
– Wikipedia. (n.d.). Indian River Inlet Bridge. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_River_Inlet_Bridge
– Cape Gazette. (2024, March 26). Water breaches dunes north of Indian River Inlet bridge. Retrieved from https://www.capegazette.com/article/water-breaches-dunes-north-indian-river-inlet-bridge/272885
– TripAdvisor. (n.d.). Indian River Inlet Bridge. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g33997-d3747485-Reviews-Indian_River_Inlet_Bridge-Bethany_Beach_Delaware.html
– SYSTRA IBT. (n.d.). Charles W. Cullen Bridge – Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Retrieved from https://www.systra.com/ibt/project/charles-w-cullen-bridge-rehoboth-beach-de/