United States: Brooklyn Bridge

One of the most recognizable bridges in the United States, the neo-Gothic Brooklyn Bridge(evidenced in the towers and Gothic arches) in New York, towers 276 ½ feet above the East River. Construction of this suspension bridge lasted 14 years and began under the direction of John A. Roebling in 1869. After his death that same year from tetanus, the project continued under his son, Washington Roebling.

In addition to six traffic lanes for vehicles, there is a pedestrian walkway permitting people to cross the bridge on foot or bicycle. On May 24, 1883, the day the bridge opened, 1800 vehicles crossed. Today, more than 144,000 vehicles cross daily, demonstrating the significance of this structure.