Philadelphians can step into history this weekend, as the Benjamin Franklin Bridge celebrates its 100th anniversary with a rare public walk across the iconic bridge.
On Saturday, July 11, the Ben Franklin Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., giving pedestrians the chance to experience one of the region's most recognizable landmarks on foot while celebrating a century of connecting Philadelphia and Camden.
Instead of carrying the roughly 100,000 cars and trucks that cross the bridge most days, the space will be used for live music, food trucks, historical exhibits, family activities, and remarks honoring its century-long legacy. The free celebration runs from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on the Camden side of the bridge near the toll plaza. Advance registration is encouraged, according to the Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA).
The centennial celebration also serves as a nod to another milestone in Philadelphia history. The bridge debuted during the city's 1926 Sesqui-Centennial International Exposition, the world's fair commemorating the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The bridge was known originally as the Delaware River Bridge. The name was only changed to Benjamin Franklin Bridge after a second Delaware River Bridge was constructed in 1955, now known as the Walt Whitman Bridge.
Over 1,300 people were working on the bridge during the height of construction. The four-year project cost the lives of 15 workers.
When the bridge first opened on July 1, 1926, it was the world's longest suspension bridge. With seven lanes, two-way rail lines, and a pedestrian walk, the bridge was critical for local commerce between Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
As part of its 100th birthday celebration this weekend, festivities will include historical exhibits commemorating the bridge's history. Included in the showcase will be an enormous bronze angel statue, one of four "Winged Victory” statues that originally sat atop the bridge's four 75-foot-tall pylons.
On Saturday night, the bridge’s decorative lighting system will light the bridge green and blue in celebration. The bridge most often uses its lighting display to celebrate holidays, events, and mark special occasions.
“The Ben Franklin Bridge has connected generations of people, businesses, and communities for 100 years,” said John T. Hanson, DRPA Chief Executive Officer, in a statement. “These special lighting presentations provide another opportunity to celebrate this extraordinary milestone and honor the bridge’s lasting impact on the Delaware Valley.”
Those wanting to attend the 100th anniversary celebration on Saturday can register for free online.
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