Perrine Bridge

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Perrine Bridge
Perrine Bridge
Official name I.B. Perrine Bridge
Carries 4 lanes of US-93
Crosses Snake River
Locale Twin Falls, Idaho
Total length 1,500 feet (457 m)
Clearance below 486 feet (148 m)
Opening date 1974

The I. B. Perrine Bridge at Twin Falls, Idaho is a four-lane span carrying U.S. Highway 93 over the Snake River Canyon. The bridge serves as the Twin Falls area's main link to Jerome County and Interstate 84.

Originally named the Twin Falls-Jerome Intercounty Bridge, Perrine Bridge is approximately 1,500 feet (457 m) long and 486 feet (148 m) above the Snake River. The original bridge was opened to traffic in September 1927 and at the time was the highest bridge in the world. The bridge was originally a toll bridge, but the tolls proved unpopular and were eliminated in 1940.

By the early 1970s the original bridge was outdated and unable to handle heavy loads and required replacement. Construction on the current bridge was completed in 1974.

Perrine Bridge is the only man-made structure in the United States where BASE jumping is allowed year-round without a permit. As such it is a popular destination for BASE jumping enthusiasts, who often refer to it as Potato Bridge.

Adjacent to the south end of the bridge is a parking area with a visitors' center, which allows for easy access to the bridge. To the east, along the south rim of the canyon, lies the dirt ramp used by Evel Knievel when he unsuccessfully attempted to jump the canyon on his motorcycle in 1974.

The bridge is named for I. B. Perrine, who spearheaded the early 20th Century irrigation projects in Idaho's Magic Valley region. Perrine is largely credited as the main founder of Twin Falls.

Perrine Bridge viewed from the memorial site
Perrine Bridge viewed from the memorial site

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