Frequently Asked Questions

Bridges

How many bridges are there in New York City? How many are under the jurisdiction of DOT?

There are 2,027 bridges in New York City. DOT owns, operates, and/or maintains 787 structures and 756 non-movable bridges. For some structures, such as 61 culverts in Staten Island, DOT shares responsibilities with other agencies.

Where are DOT's bridges?

DOT's bridges are spread throughout the city. Twenty connect boroughs, 20% are in the Bronx, 23% are in Brooklyn, 23% are in Manhattan, 26% are in Queens, and 8% are in Staten Island.

Who else operates bridges and tunnels in New York City?

Other government agencies and public authorities that are responsible for bridges and tunnels include the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation, the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, the New York State Department of Transportation, Amtrak, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and several units of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA).

The MTA operates bridges and tunnels on the Metro-North Railroad, Long Island Railroad, and subway systems. MTA Bridges and Tunnels operates the following road bridges and tunnels:

• Bronx-Whitestone Bridge
• Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel
• Cross Bay Veterans Memorial Bridge
• Henry Hudson Bridge
• Marine Parkway-Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge
• Queens Midtown Tunnel
• Throgs Neck Bridge
• Robert F. Kennedy (Triborough) Bridge
• Verrazano-Narrows Bridge

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey operates the following road bridges and tunnels between New York and New Jersey:

• Bayonne Bridge
• George Washington Bridge
• Goethals Bridge
• Holland Tunnel
• Lincoln Tunnel
• Outerbridge Crossing

Which DOT bridge carries the largest amount of daily traffic?

The Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge — on an average weekday in 2009, 180,000 vehicles crossed it. The next most-used bridge was the Mill Basin Bridge, with 145,000 crossings. The Brooklyn Bridge had 125,000 crossings, the Williamsburg Bridge had 108,000 and the Manhattan Bridge had 72,000. The quietest DOT-operated bridge was the historic Carroll Street Bridge, with 1,000 crossings

How many New York City bridges are historic landmarks?

As of January 1, 1998, ten bridges in New York City had been awarded some degree of landmark status. They include seven that are under DOT's jurisdiction: the Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queensboro, Washington, University Heights, Carroll Street and Macombs Dam Bridges. The three landmarked bridges not operated by DOT are the George Washington Bridge (Port Authority), the High Bridge (NYC Department of Parks & Recreation), and Hell Gate Bridge (Amtrak).

What was the first bridge built in New York City? What is the oldest bridge still standing in New York City?

New York City's first bridge, known as the King's Bridge, was constructed in 1693. Fitted with stone abutments and a timber deck, it spanned Spuyten Duyvil Creek between Manhattan and the Bronx. It was demolished in 1917.

The oldest bridge that is open to passengers or vehicles is the Brooklyn Bridge, which opened in 1883.

The oldest bridge still standing in New York City is the High Bridge, which spans the Harlem River between Manhattan and the Bronx; it opened in 1848. The High Bridge was originally an aqueduct, built to bring water to the city. It is not currently open, but it being rehabilitated for pedestrian and bicycle use.
Learn more about the renovation of the High Bridge

When were the East River Bridges built?

The four major bridges over the East River were constructed within four decades, from the start of construction on the Brooklyn Bridge in January 1870 to completion of the Manhattan Bridge in December 1909. The Brooklyn Bridge, one of New York City's most celebrated architectural wonders, opened in May, 1883. The Williamsburg Bridge opened in 1903 .

The two-decked Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge was completed in March, 1909. The Manhattan Bridge, opened on traffic on December 31, 1909.

Which of the East River Bridges is the longest?

The Williamsburg Bridge has the longest span, at 1,600 ft. The Brooklyn Bridge is a close second, at 1595.5 feet. Both the Williamsburg and Brooklyn Bridges were the longest suspension bridges in the world when they opened.

How many movable bridges does New York City operate?

There are 25 movable bridges in New York City, including two retractile bridges, seven swing bridges, four lift bridges, and twelve bascule (drawbridge) bridges.

When do movable bridges open for marine traffic?

The procedures for opening the City's movable bridges are stipulated by United States Coast Guard regulations. While no permits are required for an opening, for most bridges the regulations state that two to four-hour notifications must be provided. This notification is done by one of three methods. A vessel may contact the bridge operator over two-way marine radio, call the Bridge Operations Office, or call DOT's Communication Center.
Learn more

Who do I contact to report a damaged railing or other hazard on a City bridge?

Call 311.

Can I use my E-Z Pass to pay tolls on all New York City bridges?

There are no tolls on bridges operated by the New York City Department of Transportation. E-Z Pass can be used on all bridges and tunnels operated by the MTA and the Port Authority.
Visit the E-Z Pass for additional information.