Judge Seeber – Claiborne Ave Bridge

This is one of my least favorite bridges in the world.
Recently this bridge was under some sort of construction that required a full closure. Making matters worse was the fact that the closure extended far longer than originally planned. This meant massive traffic to and from St. Bernard Parish for several months. Luckily I didn’t have to go that way during the closure, but the public sure was negatively effected.
Now for the reasons I hate this bridge. First off, this bridge has an unnatural turn when entering from N. Claiborne. For those that aren’t familiar with the bridge, they occasionally crash instead of turning. If you do succeed in making the turn, the draw bridge grate is of an extremely odd design. I am not sure why, but driving over that grate makes you feel as if your car is going to lose control. The one time I traveled over this bridge on a motorcycle I thanked my lucky stars when I made it without dying. That leads to the next reason I hate this bridge.
There have been two high profile deaths on this bridge that always resonated with me. The first was in the 90’s during a time that I drove this bridge regularly to pick up a buddy who lived in the parish. A portion of roadway collapsed and a pregnant woman fell to her death. The second was more recent when an NOPD officer was heading home and the bridge operator failed to lower the car barrier preventing people from driving off of an open bridge. Unfortunately the officer did just that plummeting to his death. I am sure that they have solved the problems that caused those deaths, but i can’t help but think of them when I’ve driven over this bridge.
I doubt you’ll see to many check ins from me here as my scardey cat self will be on the St. Claude bridge instead.

Of the 3 bridges that are a connection between the upper & lower 9^th ward, I like this one best. Here’s why:
*its the higher of the 3 & as a results ship passage is possible without my traveling being interrupted
*its rickety & has loads of character
*relic of my childhood
At the top of the bridge, the grids beneath your car, while you’re driving it seems to feel as though your car is shifting. And then if you’re at the top & not moving, it sways, how cool is that?
The site of a few deaths & the subject in many Hurricane Katrina documentaries, this bridge is vital to transit across the Industrial Canal. Separating Upper 9^th from the Lower 9^th ward, connection to St Bernard Parish, Chalmette, Arabi, Poydras, Louisiana; its a staple in this community. As of late it can be seen in the filming of Animal Planets Pit Bulls & Parolees.
Its closure is quite noticeable & felt among those who travel the area.
I’m soooooo happy its now reopened for my traveling needs.