Measuring 6,016 feet across and at a cost of $15.1 million, The Brooklyn Bridge is a symbol of strength and longevity. In 1855, John Roebling, the owner of a wire rope company and a famous bridge designer, proposed a suspension bridge over the East River after getting frustrated with the Atlantic Avenue-Fulton Street Ferry, the only mode of transportation between NYC and Brooklyn.
In 1867, a group of prominent leaders formed the New York Bridge Company "for the purpose of constructing and maintaining a bridge across the East River." Two years later, in June 1869, the New York City Council approved Roebling's design. In July that same year, John got his foot crushed on a pier by an incoming ferry. He died from lockjaw resulting from that injury on July 22, 1869.
Ground was finally broken in January 1870, and the foundations took 3 years to construct. Through worker deaths and minor complications, the bridge was finished on May 23, 1883. That day, 150,300 people crossed the bridge.
Now a great place to take a walk or jog, The Brooklyn Bridge graces the skyline. On September 11, 2001, that bridge became an escape route for people who witnessed the World Trade Center disaster.
Pier 17, located adjacent to the bridge, offers ferry rides, restaurants, and shopping. About a 10-minute walk from Ground Zero, the South Street Seaport is a great place to sightsee, and of course, have lunch.
The Brooklyn Bridge is a beautiful bridge and a wonderful place to take a walk. You can also get great pics of the NYC skyline from the bridge