The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey recently completed the replacement of all 592 original suspender ropes on the George Washington Bridge.
The work is part of the $2 billion Restoring the George program that includes 11 projects that will rehabilitate, repair or replace major components. Replacing the suspender ropes– which range in length from 38 feet to 674 feet– took seven years to complete.
“Replacing all 592 suspender ropes on the George Washington Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering as we work to rehabilitate and renew nearly every major component of the world’s busiest bridge,” Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole said. “Over seven years, our teams diligently planned and worked with precision and perseverance to ensure the bridge remains safe and reliable for millions who depend on it for work, commuting or travel. As the bridge nears its centennial, we’re proud to help preserve its legacy as an engineering marvel while securing its future for decades to come.”
The bridge’s main cables also were rehabilitated and both of the span’s sidewalks were rebuilt as part of the project. The north sidewalk reopened in February 2023, and south sidewalk is scheduled to reopen by the end of 2026.