Discovery Bridge (Yankton)

The Discovery Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge spanning the Missouri River, connecting Yankton, South Dakota and Cedar County, Nebraska. It carries U.S. Route 81 and is a major transportation route in the region. The bridge was constructed to replace the Meridian Bridge, which had weight restrictions that limited its functionality for modern traffic. Construction began in 2006 and the bridge opened to traffic in October 2008.

The Discovery Bridge is a significant engineering achievement, featuring a distinctive design with its single pylon and cable stays. It is named in recognition of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which passed through the area in the early 19th century, furthering westward discovery and exploration. The bridge improves traffic flow, supports economic activity in the region, and provides a reliable crossing of the Missouri River.