Noke News explores parts of Roanoke by foot, equipped with a camera and a notepad, in hopes of learning something new. Perhaps you will too.

In a previous post I uploaded a photo which was a view from the Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial Bridge in downtown Roanoke.

But, as of yet on this site I have not made mention of the bridge itself or the thoughtfully crafted patio area and statue which stands on the end near Shenandoah Ave.

Let’s check it out:

We’ll start on the side facing Salem Avenue at the intersection with 2nd Street. The entrance to the bridge is marked with a pair of brick columns, one on each side.

A plaque has also been placed on each column designating the bridge in memorial a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

An entrance to the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Bridge, at the intersection of Salem Avenue and 2nd Street SW.

The bridge I believe is entirely for pedestrian (foot traffic) use only, no bicycles or skateboards are permitted. The floor of the bridge is in the form of wooden planks which gives it an antique feel.

Walking on the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Bridge in downtown Roanoke.

Along the way while walking upwards, if we stop for a moment and look over to the right, there’s an elevated view looking down at a section of The Railwalk.

View of The Railwalk from the bridge.

And near the middle and highest part of the bridge there’s an excellent view of the railroad tracks below, as well as the Wachovia Tower in the background.

View of the railroad tracks below and the Wachovia Tower in the background.

After reaching the other end of the bridge (near Shenandoah Avenue) there’s a statue of Dr. King, which is surrounded by a patio area. It’s a quaint little space for gathering or with benches for sitting.

Statue of Martin Luther King Jr in downtown Roanoke.

A closer look at the lower part of the statue reveals a thoughtfully engraved scene with rather amazing detail. I stood for a short while further admiring the memorial itself, which very much exceeds my expectations.

Engraving on the lower section of the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial Statue in downtown Roanoke.

Then, I started heading back the same way we originally came up. I snapped one final photo looking directly out from the bridge and onto a part of downtown Roanoke.

View from the bridge looking out onto part of downtown Roanoke.