The ‘Flying Drawbridge’

[Wizzo]

Located in the city of Leeuwarden in the Netherlands is Slauerhoffbrug (English: Slauerhoff Bridge), a fully automatic bascule bridge.

The bridge is affectionately known as the ‘Flying Drawbridge’ can be quickly raised and lowered from one pylon (instead of hinges). This allows water traffic to quickly pass while only briefly stalling road and bike traffic above. The deck is 15 m by 15 m (50 x 50 ft) and is painted yellow and blue to represent Leeuwarden’s flag and seal.

[Scott]

Looks like War of the Worlds or something.  Very cool.  I found it in action on Youtube as well (sorry for the doofus who needs to turn his camera to portrait at one point to get the whole bridge in the shot  )