Stayton Jordan Covered Bridge - Award Winning Bridge!

Stayton Jordan Covered Bridge sits in the Pioneer Park in the city of Stayton, 12 miles away from Salem. This pedestrian bridge spans the Salem Power Canal, a diversion from the North Santiam River.

The bridge is open year-round, providing a scenic spot for nature viewing, picnicking, and even private events like weddings.

The Howe truss bridge is 90 feet (27 m) long and has unique features, including rounded portals, a shake roof, and large openings for natural light and ventilation.

However, the bridge's most unique feature is its history and ties with the Stayton community.

History

The original bridge was built in 1937 over Thomas Creek near Lyons in Linn County. Known as the Jordan Bridge, it was notable for its large side openings and was one of seven similar structures in Linn County.

After being dismantled in 1985, the bridge was moved to Stayton and reassembled in 1988 by a dedicated group of volunteers and Marine Corps reservists.

The project to dismantle, move, and reassemble the original Jordan Bridge was recognized with an award from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Council on Historic Preservation. It was Oregon's first full-size covered bridge to undergo such a process.

Unfortunately, the bridge was destroyed by a fire in 1994 caused by kids shooting Christmas lights with BB guns.

The current Stayton-Jordan Bridge, completed in 1998, was built nearly identical to the original. The reconstruction effort was a community-driven initiative spearheaded by the "Rebuild the Jordan Bridge Committee."

The city provided the necessary funding from insurance claims, and 90 locals, ages 7 to over 77, participated. The project was completed in a record time of just 18 weeks.