Re-Imagined Radio | A Mighty Span

Re-Imagined Radio explores early examples of dramatized news events and uses this inspiration to create its own dramatization of the opening of the Interstate Bridge linking Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, across the Columbia River, 106 years ago, February 14, 1917.

Our dramatized radio broadcast originates from the lift span of the Interstate Bridge where a temporary platform was erected in the roadway. State and local leaders delivered speeches. The ribbon was cut. The bridge was officially opened. Automobiles and pedestrians moved across the new bridge, back and forth between Oregon and Washington. We hope our radio storytelling engages listeners through their experience of speech and other sounds such that they can imagine being on the Interstate Bridge the day of its opening, and experiencing some of the spectacle and pride associated with opening this mighty span across the Columbia River.