Manhattan Bridge

This steel structure spans the East River between Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, linking both neighborhoods with two stacked levels of roadway. The steel towers rise above the water and hold four thick cables that support the weight of the decks, tracks, and continuous flow of traffic.

Construction started shortly after 1900 under the direction of Leon Moisseiff, who would later contribute to the Golden Gate Bridge design. Completion in 1909 created another direct link alongside the Brooklyn Bridge to meet growing traffic demands.

The arches at the Manhattan anchorage feature colonnade-like pillars that mark the entrance to the city with a monumental gesture. Pedestrians and cyclists use separate paths on the south side while traffic on both levels moves almost constantly throughout the day.

The pedestrian and bike path runs along the south side, separated from car traffic, offering a quieter way to cross the river. The crossing takes around 20 to 30 minutes on foot, depending on pace and stops at viewpoints.

Subway trains on the B, D, N, and Q lines rumble past on the lower deck, creating a rhythmic hum that can be heard from the walkway above. The view from the center shows both the Brooklyn Bridge and the Downtown Manhattan skyline in direct line of sight.

Location: Manhattan

Location: Brooklyn

Inception: July 1910

Architects: Carrère and Hastings

Official opening: December 31, 1909

Height: 102 m

Length: 2,090 m

Longest Span: 451 m

Width: 37 m

Made from material: steel

GPS coordinates: 40.70722,-73.99083

Latest update: December 12, 2025 21:35