Celebrating 114 Years of the Medina River Bridge

Celebrating 114 Years of the Medina River Bridge: A Historic Milestone

On January 17, 2025, we celebrate a remarkable milestone—114 years since the formal opening of the Medina River Bridge! This iconic structure is the oldest ‘unmodified’ Open-Spandrel Concrete Arch bridge in Texas, standing as a testament to engineering excellence and historical significance. The bridge is located at 15911 Pleasanton Road San Antonio, TX 78221.

This year also marks a significant anniversary, as it has been 40 years since the Medina River bridge was closed to traffic in 1985. The opening of a new bridge bypassed the Medina River Bridge, leaving it a symbol of the past and a cherished piece of history. Many memories of crossing the bridge before it was closed are still vivid. Do you remember the days when it served as a crucial route? Or perhaps you recall the construction of the new bridge?

Looking south from under the new bridge. The bridge in 1985 shortly after bing closed to traffic. Photo credit: TxDOT

Looking north. The bridge in 1985 shortly after bing closed to traffic. Photo credit: TxDOT

The bridge plaque in 1985 shortly after bing closed to traffic. Sadly both plaques have been stolen. Photo credit: TxDOT

To honor the history of the Medina River Bridge, the Medina River Bridge Facebook Page shared some photographs from this morning alongside images from 1985, shortly after the bridge ceased to serve traffic. These snapshots help tell the story of this beloved landmark, but we want to hear more from you!

Do you or anyone you know have photographs, old or new, of the Medina River bridge? Or maybe you have a story or memory to share about crossing it or watching the new bridge go up? We’d love to hear from you!

Looking south. The bridge in 1985 shortly after bing closed to traffic. Photo credit: TxDOT

Same angle almost 40 years ago. The bridge in 1985 shortly after bing closed to traffic. Photo credit: TxDOT

Contact or message us about other hidden historical gems in South San Antonio. For more updates, historical photos, and community stories about the Medina River Bridge, follow @medinariverbridge on Instagram and Facebook.

Information and images courtesy of the Medina River Bridge Facebook Page.