Driving Through Ferry Point Bridge Crossing - from Calais, Maine to St. Stephen, New Brunswick скачать в хорошем качестве

Driving Through Ferry Point Bridge Crossing - from Calais, Maine to St. Stephen, New Brunswick

The Ferry Point Bridge Crossing is a vital link between Calais, Maine, and St. Stephen, New Brunswick, situated on the Canada–US border. This historical crossing at the Ferry Point International Bridge has served as a crucial connection between these two communities for nearly two centuries. Over the years, the bridge and its facilities have evolved significantly, reflecting changes in architecture, transportation, and border control practices. Historical Evolution of the Bridge Various bridges have spanned the St. Croix River at this location since 1826, each playing a critical role in facilitating trade, travel, and communication between the United States and Canada. The first substantial bridge, completed in 1847, was a covered toll bridge that provided a more reliable and weather-resistant crossing compared to its predecessors. In 1895, the covered bridge was replaced by a steel bridge, marking a significant technological advancement. This new structure included a streetcar line and eliminated the need for tolls, making it more accessible to the public. For many years, this steel bridge was the principal crossing point between Calais and St. Stephen, fostering economic and social interactions between the two towns. Changes in Usage and Infrastructure The completion of the International Avenue Border Crossing in 2009 brought about significant changes in the usage of the Ferry Point Bridge. With the opening of this new crossing, commercial trucks were prohibited from using the Ferry Point Bridge, which significantly reduced the volume of truck traffic passing through the downtown areas of both Calais and St. Stephen. This change aimed to alleviate congestion and improve the quality of life for residents in these areas. The United States Border Facilities The United States border station at the Ferry Point Bridge is located at the southern end of the bridge, just west of Calais's central business district. This facility, constructed between 1935 and 1936, is a notable example of Colonial Revival architecture and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014. Architectural Details The main building of the US border station is a 2½-story brick structure featuring a side gable roof and corbelled brick chimneys. Its Colonial Revival style is evident in the brick quoining at the building corners and the angled brick-and-marble lintels with keystones above many windows. A distinctive rosette window adorns the center of the main facade, complemented by similar louvered openings at the tops of the side gables. The interior of the main building is divided into two main sections: one for customs and the other for immigration facilities. Originally, the second floor housed living quarters but has since been repurposed for storage and meeting space. Additional Structures The facility also includes a four-bay wood-frame garage with a pyramidal roof, built around 1936, and a two-bay shed-roof garage constructed around 1980. These additional structures support the operations of the border station and provide essential services for border control personnel. Historical Context The construction of this border station was part of a broader program initiated by the US federal government in the late 1920s to exert more direct control over border crossing points. This initiative was driven by the increasing use of automobiles and the need to curb smuggling activities, particularly during Prohibition. Before the establishment of this facility, customs and immigration operations were conducted in leased spaces on the east (northbound) side of the bridge. The Canadian Border Facilities On the Canadian side, the border station is situated at the north end of the Ferry Point Bridge in St. Stephen, New Brunswick. Built in 1955, this facility complements its US counterpart in providing comprehensive border control services. While the architectural details of the Canadian facility are less documented, it serves a similar function in managing the flow of goods and people across the border. Modern Significance Today, the Ferry Point Bridge Crossing continues to be an important gateway for travelers and locals alike. While commercial truck traffic has been redirected to other crossings, the bridge remains a key route for personal vehicles and pedestrians, maintaining its historical role in connecting Calais and St. Stephen. The border facilities on both sides ensure the secure and efficient processing of travelers, reflecting the long-standing cooperation between the United States and Canada.