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Culture & Lifestyle • Landmark

Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is a historic suspension bridge in New York City that spans the East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Brooklyn Bridge is a historic suspension bridge in New York City that spans the East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn. Opened in 1883, it is one of the city’s best-known landmarks and a major symbol of 19th-century engineering. The bridge was the first fixed crossing of the East River and, at its completion, was the longest suspension bridge in the world.

History

Construction began in 1869 and the bridge opened to the public on May 24, 1883. It was a major engineering project of the 19th century and took 14 years to complete.

Design and engineering

The Brooklyn Bridge is a suspension bridge with stone towers and steel wire cables. It was notable for using steel cable wire and for pioneering the use of a pneumatic caisson during construction.

Use and operation

The bridge remains in active use today, carrying road traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists. It connects Lower Manhattan with Brooklyn Heights and is maintained by the City of New York.

Cultural significance

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York City’s most recognizable landmarks and is frequently cited as a symbol of engineering achievement and urban identity. It has also been designated a historic landmark.

Key facts

  • It was the first fixed crossing of the East River.
  • When it opened, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world.
  • The bridge was designed by John A. Roebling; construction was completed after his death.
  • It carries vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles.
  • It is widely regarded as an iconic symbol of New York City.

Frequently asked questions

When was the Brooklyn Bridge opened?
It opened on May 24, 1883.
What does the Brooklyn Bridge connect?
It connects Manhattan and Brooklyn in New York City.
Who designed the Brooklyn Bridge?
It was designed by John A. Roebling.
How long is the Brooklyn Bridge?
Its total length is about 5,989 feet (1,825 m).
Is the Brooklyn Bridge still in use?
Yes. It still carries vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brooklyn_Bridge
    Supports: Basic facts on location, opening date, length, and status as first fixed East River crossing.
  2. NYC Department of Transportation — https://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/infrastructure/brooklyn-bridge.shtml
    Supports: Official details on design, connections, traffic lanes, and construction dates.
  3. American Society of Civil Engineers — https://www.asce.org/about-civil-engineering/history-and-heritage/historic-landmarks/brooklyn-bridge
    Supports: Historical significance, opening date, and engineering challenges.
  4. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Brooklyn-Bridge
    Supports: General description, engineering innovations, and National Historic Landmark status.
  5. Library of Congress — https://www.loc.gov/item/today-in-history/june-12/
    Supports: Main span, historical significance, and symbolic importance.