An icon of American history, the Brooklyn Bridge has served New Yorkers for nearly 125 years. At one time the longest suspension bridge in the world, this gorgeous Gothic structure looms above the East River, providing a gateway from Manhattan into Brooklyn for automobiles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Brooklyn Bridge Basics
- Construction commenced: January 3, 1870
- Opened to traffic: May 24, 1883
- Total length: 6016 feet
- Length of main span: 1595.5 feet
- Length of each of the four cables: 3578.5 feet
The Brooklyn Bridge was constructed thanks to the efforts of a father and son team -- John Augustus Roebling designed the bridge's structure, and his son Washington Roebling oversaw its completion.
The Brooklyn Bridge TodayToday, 145,000 vehicles cross the Brooklyn Bridge every day, according to the AADT. Designated a National Historic Landmark, the bridge has six lanes for automobile traffic, plus additional bike and pedestrian lanes. The views of Manhattan's skyline from the bridge are breathtaking.
From postcards to poetry, the Brooklyn Bridge has inspired artists and photographers throughout the world. Frank Sinatra devoted an entire song to the structure, singing:
"All the folks in Manhattan are sad
'cause they look at her and wish they had
the good old Brooklyn Bridge."
Data: NYC Department of Transportation
