Montlake Bridge
I often pass the Montlake Bridge on my way to UW, but today was different: the bridge opened for water traffic just as I got there. The light turned red, and the bars descended, signaling the bridge's closure. I watched as the bridge slowly lifted to allow a sailboat to pass through, but I only saw the sailboat's mast passing by. Remarkable to see the massive structure rise and then descend back into place.
14:00:56, Bridge starting to open
14:01:36
14:01:52
14:02:06
14:02:36
14:03:06, Bridge fully opened
14:04:52, Bridge closing
14:05:08
14:05:50, Bridge completed its cycle and traffic resumes in a few seconds
A few days later, I was on the other side of the canal while traffic stood still, watching the bridge rise and settle once more.
A few months later, I was first in line on that same route with a perfect view as the bridge began its cycle. The timing couldn't have been better. The red lights flashed, the gates descended, and the massive structure started its graceful ascent. Positioned at the very front, I could see every detail: the roadway lifting, the two halves opening, and the quiet pause at full height before the bridge eased back into place.
A while later, I checked the traffic and noticed the red lines of waiting cars on the map. Sure enough, the bridge was operating. Here are some screenshots from a different perspective:
Gates open
Traffic resumes
See also Lake Washington Bridges.