Named for perhaps our most famous Philadelphian , the Benjamin Franklin Bridge is an icon in our city and known around the world.
Many times during the year, the bridge is illuminated in colorful displays to celebrate local sports championships, raise awareness for national causes, and mark holidays.
The area around what is now the Benjamin Franklin Bridge is rooted deep in Philadelphia history. As early as the late 1680s , the area around what was once the longest suspension bridge in the world between 1926–1929 was previously utilized for transportation ferries between New Jersey and Philadelphia.
During the American Revolution , then Cooper’s Ferry played an important role in shuttling both troops and supplies between New Jersey and Philadelphia. During the British occupation of Philadelphia in 1777, spies for the patriotic cause even utilized Cooper’s Ferry heavily to relay information on English troop movements. In June of 1778, when the British abandoned the city, they themselves utilized Cooper’s Ferry en route from New Jersey to New York City.
By the 19th century, Delaware River ferries had become an essential part of regional travel, even serving vacationers headed to destinations such as Atlantic City. At the time, two small islands—Smith's Island and Windmill Island—featured leisure attractions before they were removed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers between 1893 and 1897 to improve navigation and ferry traffic.
When the bridge opened in 1926, it was known as the Delaware River Bridge and held the title of the world's longest suspension bridge. Today, the span carries roughly 100,000 travelers each day. It accommodates I-676 and US 30, the PATCO Speedline, pedestrians, cyclists, and was originally designed to include streetcar service.
The bridge was designed by chief engineer Ralph Modjeski and architect Paul Cret. Construction began in 1922 and concluded just in time for Philadelphia's celebration of the 150th anniversary of American independence in July 1926. More than 1,200 workers helped build the bridge, though the project claimed the lives of 15 laborers.
The bridge has experienced its share of unusual moments over the decades. It closed to vehicle traffic for 24 hours in July 2001, and in December 1991, a powerful storm tore the steeple from nearby St. Augustine Church, sending it crashing onto the bridge and forcing a three-day closure.
Whether welcoming commuters, tourists, or sports fans, the Benjamin Franklin Bridge remains a defining part of Philadelphia's skyline. During the winter months, its towers often glow green on Eagles game days, creating one of the city's most recognizable sights—a beacon that signals football fever has arrived in Philadelphia.
MORE: Walk the Ben Franklin Bridge as it celebrates 100 years this weekend
