Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pedestrian Bridge Reopens For A More Stable Passage

Closed just a year after its opening in 2013, the Squibb Park Bridge is now open again following a series of repairs to correct a noticeable defect for passersby. Using the scenic, traffic-free connection between the Fruit Street Sitting Area of Brooklyn Heights to Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pier 1, pedestrians are now able to enjoy a more stable walk and enjoy views of the NYC skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. Just what issue caused the initial closing of this relatively new pedestrian bridge? Image Source: Wikimedia  Reduced Bounce For Sightseers And Pedestrians  As sightseers and walkers tread its surface, a distinct bouncing was experienced at certain points in the bridge, which for some was a notable feature. It was then determined that structural issues in the bridge’s zig-zagging form were creating too much instability. The problem quickly worsened during the brief time the Squibb Park Bridge remained open to the public. These issues have since been corrected with tuned mass dampers and a new truss-like structure installed below the surface, among other structural modifications. These updates haven’t completely eliminated the bounciness, but they have reduced it notably. Image Source: Curbed New York Repaired, Reopened, But Not Yet Appreciated?  With the bridge’s safer reopening, the Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation is optimistic in their investment, which has been substantial. Initial construction cost $4.1 million and subsequent repairs come to a total of $2.5 million. In addition to an ongoing lawsuit against the bridge’s original designers, substantial criticism has continued over the cost of the project. There have also been questions over the bridge’s necessity, as it saves pedestrians very little time traveling from one end to the other compared to alternative routes. Additionally, new surrounding structures built during the repairs have compromised some of the views and the bridge’s initial scenic appeal. But now, with the Squibb Park Bridge stabilized and reopened to the public, perhaps it will be be a much appreciated and worthwhile investment for Brooklyn—provided more pedestrians actually get a chance to experience it this time around. What are your thoughts on the Squibb Park Bridge and its brief but troubled history? Do you think it’s a worthy addition to the area? Comment and let us know.   Article Sources http://ny.curbed.com http://gothamist.com https://www.brownstoner.com        

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