New York City Department of Transportation Brooklyn Bridge Rehabilitation

Initial fixed span bridge proposals were hindered by busy shipping traffic on the East River. The innovative suspension bridge design by John Roebling paved the way for construction to begin in 1869, incorporating roadways, elevated rail tracks, and a walking path. Originally named the New York and Brooklyn Bridge, it was officially renamed in 1915. In recent decades, the structure has undergone refurbishments to meet modern traffic demands during its second century. Designated as a National Historic Landmark and a New York City landmark, it remains a crucial transportation link, catering to over 116,000 vehicles, 30,000 pedestrians, and 3,000 cyclists daily.

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) diligently maintains the iconic bridge’s State of Good Repair through capital projects and routine in-house repairs. In the current $262-million rehabilitation project, NYC DOT is enhancing the bridge’s load-carrying capacity, reinforcing masonry towers, and repairing historic brick and granite components. Initiated in September 2019 and slated to conclude in 2023, this project includes the restoration and reopening of “The Arches” open space in Manhattan, closed for over 20 years. The completion is timed to coincide with the Brooklyn Bridge’s 140th anniversary.

GPI is actively supplying resident engineering inspection services for this extensive rehabilitation, focusing on structural and masonry repairs to approach arch blocks, towers, ramp substructures, and various components. The process involves meticulous collaboration with NYCDOT and the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission to ensure the restoration aligns with historic preservation guidelines.