The Bear Mountain Bridge, a historic and iconic structure spanning the Hudson River, celebrated its centennial anniversary this week. Officially opened to traffic on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 1924, the bridge was the first vehicular crossing over the Hudson River between New York City and Albany. At the time of its construction, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world and the first of its kind to feature a concrete deck. Its innovative design marked the beginning of a golden age of suspension bridge construction, paving the way for other iconic spans such as the George Washington Bridge and San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge.
Mary Harriman, mother of Roland Harriman, President of the Bear Mountain Hudson River Bridge Company, presided over the opening ceremonies in 1924. The bridge immediately became a vital connection for the region, enhancing transportation and boosting economic development.
In 1940, the New York State Bridge Authority purchased the Bear Mountain Bridge for $2.275 million, initiating a new era of stewardship. The Authority made the bridge more accessible by reducing tolls, which initially cost 80 cents per vehicle. By 1945, the toll had been lowered to just 25 cents each way, making it more affordable for the growing number of travelers. Under the Bridge Authority’s management, annual traffic soared from 483,000 vehicle crossings at the end of World War II to over 7.8 million by 2019, demonstrating the bridge’s enduring importance to the region.
In 2018, the New York State Legislature, through efforts led by Assemblywoman Sandy Galef and Senator Bill Larkin, designated the span as the Purple Heart Veterans Memorial Bear Mountain Bridge, recognizing the sacrifices of America’s veterans.
The bridge’s centennial celebration was marked with fanfare, including a procession of antique cars and fire department vehicles that crossed the bridge from the Rockland County side to Putnam County. This symbolic journey celebrated the bridge’s rich history and its role in connecting communities over the past century.
As it turns 100, the Bear Mountain Bridge remains a testament to engineering ingenuity and a cherished landmark that continues to bridge the past and future. It stands as a reminder of the visionaries who built it and the millions who rely on it, embodying the spirit of connection that defines the Hudson Valley and beyond.