Bear Mountain Bridge to Celebrate 100th Anniversary

By Mrs. I. Perl

The Bear Mountain Bridge, a landmark of engineering and historical significance, is soon to celebrate its 100th anniversary.

Dedicated on November 26, 1924, and opened to the general public the following day on Thanksgiving, November 27, 1924, the bridge was a groundbreaking achievement for its time. It was the first vehicular bridge over the Hudson River south of Albany and the first suspension bridge with a concrete deck. For a brief period, it also held the title of the longest suspended central span in the world.

The Bear Mountain Bridge’s innovations spurred a boom in bridge building in New York State and across the country in the years following its completion. Originally built by the Bear Mountain Hudson River Bridge Company, the bridge was acquired by the New York State Bridge Authority (NYSBA) in September 1940, becoming NYSBA's southernmost bridge.

“The Bear Mountain Bridge is truly an icon of the Hudson Valley and New York State,” said Governor Hochul. “The bridge was a remarkable engineering achievement in 1924 and has been a mainstay of our transportation network ever since. I encourage my fellow New Yorkers to come together to honor its legacy and envision the possibilities that lie for us on the road ahead as we continue to move our state forward.”

photos: NYS Bridge Authority