Why Seattle’s Floating Highway Sank

On November 25, 1990, thousands of Seattle residents watched in shock as a major section of the Lacey V. Murrow Floating Bridge suddenly collapsed and sank into Lake Washington. The dramatic failure — captured live on television — showed the bridge folding into a massive V-shape before disappearing beneath the water. For decades, this floating highway had carried traffic across one of the deepest lakes in the United States. So how could an entire bridge simply sink? This episode explores the extraordinary history of Seattle’s floating bridge system, from its bold 1940 construction to the engineering decisions that ultimately led to disaster during renovations in 1990. Along the way, we uncover how a revolutionary solution to Seattle’s geography became one of the most unusual infrastructure failures in American history — and why engineers still study the sinking of the Murrow Bridge today. Support the Channel by becoming a member 👉    / @itshistory   IT’S HISTORY - Weekly Tales of American Urban Decay as presented by your host Ryan Socash.    • IT'S HISTORY 🔥 Trending   » Subscribe:    / @itshistory   » Listen podcasts: https://ffm.bio/itshistory » CONTACT For brands, agencies, and sponsorships: [email protected] Click here to book a sponsorship with me http://thoughtleaders.io/reserve/its-... » DISCLAIMER Some media elements in this video are used under the fair use provisions of U.S. copyright law (Title 17, Section 107) for purposes of commentary, criticism, and education. If you believe your image or content was used in a way that violates your rights, please contact us at [email protected] » CREDIT Scriptwriter - Ryan Socash Editor - Karolina Szwata Host - Ryan Socash » NOTICE Some images may be used for illustrative purposes only - always reflecting the accurate time frame and content. Events of factual error / mispronounced word/spelling mistakes - retractions will be published in this section.