Aging Gracefully: $249 Million Investment to Prolong Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge Life

New York City’s iconic Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in the United States, is set to undergo a $249 million transformation to safeguard its structural integrity and combat cable corrosion. This essential project, greenlit by the MTA, addresses the ongoing threat of corrosion that plagues aging steel structures, particularly those exposed to the harsh marine environment. Connecting Brooklyn and Staten Island, the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge carries an impressive 220,000 vehicles daily, making its continued operation crucial for the city’s transportation network. The cornerstone of the project is the installation of a cutting-edge dehumidification system within the bridge’s four massive suspension cables. This system will actively remove moisture from the air inside the cables, preventing the formation of rust and corrosion on the steel wires that support the bridge. Jamie Torres-Springer, president of MTA Construction & Development, notes that this is a globally recognized method, stating, “It’s a new system for us, but it’s become a widely accepted method of preventing steel cable corrosion around the world.” In addition to the dehumidification system, an advanced acoustic monitoring system will be implemented. This sophisticated system will provide real-time data on the condition of the cables, tracking humidity levels and detecting potential issues before they escalate into significant problems. This proactive approach allows for timely maintenance and minimizes the risk of major repairs. The project scope encompasses more than just dehumidification and monitoring. It also includes the replacement of hand ropes and stanchions, thorough inspections of internal cable panels, upgrades to electrical and communication systems, and a five-year maintenance program for the dehumidification and monitoring systems after commissioning. This comprehensive approach ensures the long-term health and reliability of the bridge. Skanska Koch, Inc., a company with a proven track record in large-scale infrastructure projects, has been selected to carry out this critical work. This project is an integral part of the MTA’s broader strategy to equip all four of its suspension bridges with dehumidification systems. The RFK Bridge is already undergoing similar upgrades, and the MTA plans to extend this initiative through its 2025–2029 capital plan. This proactive approach underscores the MTA’s commitment to preserving its infrastructure and ensuring the safe and efficient movement of millions of commuters each year. The MTA’s seven bridges and two tunnels collectively handle over 336 million vehicle crossings annually, highlighting their vital role in the region’s transportation ecosystem. Dehumidification is widely recognized as a cost-effective strategy for extending the lifespan of suspension bridges, as highlighted in Roads & Bridges magazine. Maintaining humidity levels below 40% within the cables is crucial for preventing corrosion. While initially slated for 2023, the project was temporarily put on hold following Governor Kathy Hochul’s delay of congestion pricing on June 5, 2024. However, the project is now back on track and is expected to take approximately four years to complete. The exact start date is yet to be determined. This $249 million investment in the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge represents a significant commitment to preserving one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks and ensuring its continued safe and reliable operation for decades to come. Further details about MTA projects can be found on the MTA website.