Daniel W. Hoan Memorial Bridge

The Daniel W. Hoan Memorial Bridge, often simply referred to as the Hoan Bridge, is a prominent landmark in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Spanning the Milwaukee River and connecting downtown Milwaukee with the city's Bay View neighborhood, the bridge is named in honor of Daniel Webster Hoan, a former mayor of Milwaukee who served from 1916 to 1940.

Completed in 1977, the Hoan Bridge is an iconic example of a tied-arch bridge, characterized by its distinctive yellow arches that rise gracefully above the roadway. Stretching approximately 2 miles (3.2 kilometers), it provides a crucial link for traffic on Interstate 794, facilitating efficient transportation across the Milwaukee harbor.

The bridge offers more than just functional value; it also provides breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, the Milwaukee skyline, and the city's bustling harbor. These scenic vistas make the Hoan Bridge a popular subject for photographers and a notable feature of the city's landscape.

In addition to its architectural and functional significance, the Hoan Bridge has been the focus of various lighting projects, including special illuminations for holidays and city events, enhancing its visual appeal and celebrating Milwaukee's community spirit. The "Light the Hoan" initiative, a community-funded project, has equipped the bridge with dynamic LED lighting, allowing it to serve as a canvas for vibrant light displays that can be customized for various occasions and causes.

The Hoan Bridge is an enduring symbol of Milwaukee's engineering prowess and urban development. Whether driving across it, viewing it from the shores of Lake Michigan, or admiring its illuminated arches at night, the Daniel W. Hoan Memorial Bridge remains a vital and beloved part of Milwaukee's infrastructure and identity.