Okanagan Throwback: A 'then-and-now' look at Kelowna's bridge

Okanagan Throwback is an exciting new history-based series.

In the Okanagan Throwback series, expect to learn about prominent locations, businesses, families, early settlers and the odd court case that went down in the valley.

This week's Okanagan Throwback takes a look at the old version of the William R. Bennett Bridge.

It's certainly been streamlined over the years.

As Kelowna residents talk about adding a second bridge, it's interesting to look back on how the first bridge was built and how it became an essential part of Kelowna's infrastructure in a growing city.

The William R. Bennett Bridge, (named after B.C's former premier), was installed to replace the old, Okanagan Lake Bridge.

Built in 1958, the Okanagan Lake Bridge, or the 'floating bridge' had three lanes and ran 650 metres in length.

The floating bridge also featured a vertical lift allowing the taller sail boats to pass through unscathed.

In 2008, the decision was made to replace the bridge, as it wasn't able to fully support the level of traffic.

Construction on the William R. Bennett Bridge began in 2005 and was finished in 2008.

The old floating bridge was left up until May 31st, 2008, while the WRB Bridge opened on May 25th, 2008.

The new bridge was designed to handle up to 80,000 vehicles per day, while the old floating bridge was only meant to handle 38,000 vehicles.

By 2005, bridge traffic was up to 50,000 vehicles per day (Source: Canadian Consulting Engineer).

According to the Canadian Consulting Engineer, "one of the most innovative aspects of the project was the method of connecting the new bridge to the existing bridge anchors."

Feel free to share any memories of the Okanagan Lake Bridge in the comments below!