The Williamsburg Bridge, located in New York, is a steel suspension bridge that connects the Lower East Side of Manhattan with the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn. Opened in 1903, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time, a title it held until 1924 when the Bear Mountain Bridge was completed.
The bridge was designed by Leffert L. Buck, who also worked on the Niagara Railway Arch Bridge. It was constructed to alleviate congestion on the Brooklyn Bridge and took about seven years to complete. The total cost of the bridge and its approaches was approximately $24.2 million, an enormous sum for the time.
Fun fact: The bridge spans 7,308 feet and was the first major bridge in New York City to carry both rail and road traffic. Today, it supports vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians, making it a versatile part of New York’s infrastructure.
One of the bridge’s most interesting quirks is its dual-level structure. The upper level carries vehicular traffic, while the lower level was originally designed for trolley cars and railways. The trolley tracks were removed in 1948, and now the lower level accommodates subway lines J, M, and Z.
During its early years, the Williamsburg Bridge was a bustling hub of activity. It played a significant role in the expansion of Williamsburg, transforming it from a quiet neighborhood into a vibrant community. The bridge also inspired the song “East River” by F. Scott Fitzgerald, who mentioned it in his short story “My Lost City.”
An often-overlooked piece of trivia: The bridge’s towers are adorned with distinctive finials, which add to its unique architectural charm. These finials were designed by architect Henry Hornbostel, who was known for his Beaux-Arts style.
The Williamsburg Bridge has also made numerous appearances in popular culture, from movies like “Once Upon a Time in America” to TV series like “Gossip Girl.” Its gritty, industrial aesthetic has made it a favorite filming location.
In 1988, the bridge underwent a major rehabilitation project, which took 16 years to complete and cost around $1 billion. This project was necessary to address structural issues and to ensure the bridge could continue to serve New Yorkers for many more years.
Next time you find yourself in New York, take a stroll or bike ride across the Williamsburg Bridge. It offers stunning views of the city and a tangible connection to its rich, layered history.