Bear Mountain Bridge Set for Modern Upgrades Enhancing Safety and Accessibility

The Bear Mountain Bridge, New York State Bridge Authority’s oldest structure, is set for significant enhancements. Spanning the Hudson River, it connects Routes 6 and 202, as well as the Appalachian Trail. This iconic bridge, which debuted on Thanksgiving Day in 1924, was once the longest suspension bridge globally. On Thursday evening, the first in a series of public discussions about the upgrade project took place at Garrison’s public library.

Officials from the Bridge Authority presented plans to revamp the aging bridge deck, improve concrete barriers, expand sidewalks, and enhance overall accessibility. This 2,255-foot-long span accommodates not just millions of vehicles annually but also pedestrians and cyclists. Planners reassured that at least one pedestrian walkway will stay accessible during construction. Another focus of the upgrades involves installing climb deterrent fencing, underscored by attendees at Thursday’s meeting as crucial for preventing suicides.

Additional public consultations are slated before construction kicks off. According to state officials, the project is anticipated to commence in early 2026 and reach completion by the fall of 2027.