Seattle Public Utilities Salmon Bone Bridge Rehabilitation

Originally constructed in 2000 as part of an urban stream rehabilitation effort, Salmon Bone Bridge was created to restore Longfellow Creek while offering the community a distinctive public open space. Designed by renowned Seattle artist Lorna Jordan, the pedestrian bridge evokes the skeletal structure of a fish, with decking made from recycled cedar timbers arranged in a striking herringbone pattern. Also known as the Adams Fish Bridge, it quickly became both a functional crossing and an artistic landmark.

Decades later, when the structure showed signs of compromise, Seattle Public Utilities engaged the team to evaluate and restore the bridge. Lund Opsahl conducted a thorough site condition assessment and structural evaluation, determining the extent of necessary repairs to extend its serviceable life. The scope included developing construction documents to implement a comprehensive repair program in close collaboration with the City and design partners.

Restoration work replaced the decking with a richly toned wood surface, refreshed the steel structure with marine-grade paint, and introduced a new cable railing system, ADA upgrades, and other refinements. The result preserves Jordan’s original artistic vision while ensuring the bridge is more durable, accessible, and safe, with reduced maintenance needs for years to come.

Photos courtesy Seattle Public Utilities.