Jordan Bridge is a soaring concrete bridge that opened in late 2012 to replace the original steel structure built in 1928 and reconnect the community across the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River. Its structural curves were incorporated to ensure a gradual rise that was not too steep to travel. The bridge is 5,375 feet long, just over a mile, with a main channel span of 370 feet across the river. It is the region's tallest bridge, standing 169 feet above the water, and provides navigational clearance for cargo ships large enough to traverse the Panama Canal. Military and cargo vessels often share the busy waterway with pleasure craft. The Elizabeth River is part of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, offering smooth, protected waters for vessels of all sizes traveling between Boston, Massachusetts, and Key West, Florida. From the pedestrian walkway, sweeping panoramic views include the Gilmerton and High Rise Bridges to the south, Norfolk Naval Shipyard founded in 1767, the downtown Norfolk skyline, Virginia Beach Town Center, the Enviva Domes, and Elizabeth River Park, which was expanded and upgraded after the removal of the original bridge.