The University bascule bridge was originally constructed in 1919. In 1932, a large-scale widening and reconstruction was undertaken. The wood trestle was replaced with steel and concrete, the control towers were rebuilt, and the span was widened by two lanes. The wood surface of the span was replaced with open steel mesh, its first use in the United States. The bridge reopened April 7, 1933.

Both albums contain photos of the construction work in 1932 and early 1933. All photos are numbered and dated. Album 1 photos are contained within their original album and accompanied by captions explaining the work that was being done and materials used. They show the bridge before and after the reconstruction; workers and engineers; brackets, stringers, supports, and general framework of the bridge; and installation of the open-mesh steel flooring. Album 2 photos are separated from the original album and do not contain descriptive information.

Prints in this album come from Seattle Engineering Department negatives which have been digitized, described, and are available online on our digital collections site.