Why wasn't the Oakland part of the San Francisco-Bay Bridge also built as a suspension bridge instead of a truss bridge?

barker111

The structure is actually 3 bridges: two suspension bridges and one cantilever bridge (a bridge formed by two projecting beams joined in the center and supported on piers and anchored by counterbalancing members). Construction on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge was difficult because of the width of the bay and depth of the water. Earthquake faults and the difficulty of finding a solid anchorage on the muddy bottom further complicated the construction. Jul 25 05, 7:06 AM

robboy

I read the question asking why it isn't, rather than explaining what it is. I believe it has to do with the functions of the bridges. The west side suspension bridges had to not only allow for people to cross, but it required making allowances for sea traffic to access the ports inside the bay. The east bay side didn't have this dual duty and only required a means to allow vehicular traffic. A peek at the attached photo will make it a bit more clear. http://www.photosofoldamerica.com/index.cfm/Golden_Gate_Bay_Bridges-San_FranciscoOakland_Bay_Bridge_Construction_Wide_View_106.htm Jul 25 05, 12:15 PM