The bridge is a modern double lane structure that opened in 1985. Two different bridges spanned the Watauga River prior to 1985. The first bridge was a "self supporting" steel bridge that was constructed in the 1920s. ( Shown in an earlier photo ).This single lane bridge washed out in the 1940 flood. The next bridge was also single lane, but was supported by two cement supports in the river. ( which the earlier bridge did not have). Due to increased traffic, the bridge shown is double lane.