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What is a Causeway?

Sheri Cyprus
Sheri Cyprus

A causeway is a narrow raised pathway that has sand, marshland or water underneath it. Causeways may be a natural part of a landscape or they may be created with bridge construction methods. Some of these roadways may be a part of an irrigation system such as a canal. One of the earliest forms of roads, causeways exist worldwide.

The Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland was formed naturally in the Neolithic period between 4000 and 2000 BC. It consists of hexagonal pillars made by the cooling lava of volcanic eruptions. The heights of the pillars, or columns, vary according to how fast the lava cooled. The Irish mythology behind the natural wonder of The Giant's Causeway is that a giant named Finn McCool built it so he could reach Scotland to fight his Scottish rival, Benandonner.

Singapore joins Peninsular Malaysia via a Johor causeway.
Singapore joins Peninsular Malaysia via a Johor causeway.

The ancient Mayans used causeways called sacbeob to connect different parts of a city for the easiest possible access. The Mayan word sacbe means “white way.” The Mayan style of causeway was usually topped with white stone. The white stone topped Mayan causeway in Nakbe, Guatemala, dates back to the Early Formation era of 1400 BC.

West Lake, in China's Zhejiang province, is sectioned by several different causeways. King Fahd Causeway in Saudi Arabia serves as a connector bridge. It joins Bahrain Island to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The Johor is another one of the world's connector type of causeways. It joins Singapore with Peninsular Malaysia.

The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is located near New Orleans in southern Louisiana.
The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is located near New Orleans in southern Louisiana.

The Johor is also one of the many causeways that charge motorists toll fees. Toll fees are used by government transportation departments to help offset the cost of building new bridges or roadways. Companies that specialize in the construction of causeways for irrigation purposes first need the site looked at by experts in water supply systems. In some areas, environmental protection inspectors may be required to approve the application to build causeways. For instance, causeways may change the water flow and movement of sediment that may affect the growth of water life such as reefs and seagrass.

The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway in Southern Louisiana in the United States is one of the toll types of causeways. It's estimated that at least 42,000 cars travel the Pontchartrain on an average weekday. The Pontchartrain is often said to have the world's longest bridge, but it may actually be second to Thailand's Bang Na Expressway. Which causeway of the two is really the longest is often disputed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a causeway?

A causeway is a raised road or track across low or wet ground or water, often connecting two land masses. It's typically constructed using earth, rocks, and other materials to form a solid pathway that can support foot traffic, vehicles, or trains, enabling transportation over otherwise impassable areas.

How are causeways different from bridges?

Causeways and bridges both facilitate transportation over obstacles, but they differ in structure and application. Bridges are structures specifically designed to span physical obstacles without blocking the way underneath, often for waterways or valleys. Causeways, on the other hand, may impede water flow as they are built up from the ground and are not elevated structures like most bridges.

What are some famous examples of causeways?

Famous examples include the Mont-Saint-Michel Causeway in France, which leads to the historic island commune, and the King Fahd Causeway connecting Saudi Arabia and Bahrain. These iconic structures are not only feats of engineering but also hold cultural and historical significance, attracting tourists from around the world.

Can causeways impact the environment?

Yes, causeways can significantly impact the environment. They can alter water flow and sedimentation patterns, potentially affecting local ecosystems. For instance, the construction of a causeway can lead to changes in salinity levels and disrupt the habitats of aquatic and semi-aquatic species, as noted by environmental impact assessments on various causeway projects.

Are causeways used for anything besides transportation?

Beyond transportation, causeways can serve multiple purposes. They may act as flood barriers, protecting inland areas from storm surges and high tides. Some causeways also incorporate utilities, carrying pipelines or cables across expanses of water or wetlands, thus serving an infrastructural role beyond mere conveyance of people and goods.

How are modern causeways built to minimize environmental damage?

Modern causeways are designed with environmental considerations in mind. Engineers may incorporate features like culverts or bridges within the causeway to allow for water flow and wildlife movement. Environmental impact assessments are conducted to guide the design and construction process, aiming to minimize habitat disruption and preserve the ecological balance of the affected areas.

Discussion Comments

serenesurface

I've driven on the Ponchartrain causeway, the view of the lake was really beautiful. You do have to pay a toll but they have a computerized system, its prepaid and you can set up your account information. It does everything automatically, you don't have to get out of the car which is really nice.

I stayed in Louisiana for a while but never asked about the name. Why is it called Ponchartrain? It's kind of an odd name.

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    • Singapore joins Peninsular Malaysia via a Johor causeway.
      By: syphrix
      Singapore joins Peninsular Malaysia via a Johor causeway.
    • The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is located near New Orleans in southern Louisiana.
      By: qingwa
      The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway is located near New Orleans in southern Louisiana.