Ned Flanders is a character on The Simpsons known for his piousness and friendliness in the fictional town of Springfield. He is the epitome of kindness, compassion, and positivity in the show, always being friendly and helpful towards others.
In honor of this colorful character, the city of Portland has decided to rename the Flanders Crossing bridge into “Ned Flanders Crossing”. The new name was unveiled by Sean VanGordon, the mayor of real-life Springfield, Travel Portland CEO Jeff Miller, and Portland City Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty.
“The Simpsons” creator Matt Groening grew up in Portland and has named several characters from the long-running animated series after Portland streets.
Flanders Street is named for George Flanders, an early city resident and shipping tycoon who arrived in what would become Portland in 1849.
The 24-foot-wide and 200-foot-long pedestrian and bicycle bridge connects Northwest Flanders Street at 15th and 16th avenues, spanning Interstate 405. It opened in June and is part of a neighborhood greenway that will ultimately stretch from the West Hills down to the Willamette River.
If you happen to cross the bridge while you’re in the city, make sure to say “Hi-diddly ho!” to other people there.
(All Images Credit: Beth Nakamura/ The Oregonian/ OregonLive)