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The next time Ben Franklin Bridge will shut down to traffic

Mike D'Onofrio

Crowded pedestrian walkway on a pale-blue steel suspension bridge, flanked by stone towers, with many people wearing hats and backpacks under a light sky. — People didn't miss their shot to walk the Ben Franklin Bridge on July 11 to mark the span's 100th birthday. Photo: Mike D'Onofrio/Axios

👋 Hi, Mike here. Last week's Ben Franklin Bridge crawl was a once-in-a-generation event — but it shouldn't be.

Why it matters: Tens of thousands of people showed up for the bridge's 100th birthday bash — a powerful indication that the Delaware River Port Authority should consider doing this every year.

I know I should stick in my lane writing newsletters.

Yes, but: Here's my proposal, DRPA: Once a year, perhaps rotating each season, close down the bridge so people can appreciate the views offered by this colossal landmark.

Spoiler alert: It's obviously going to take a little more coaxing for the Port Authority to warm up to the idea.

What they're saying: "No, this is not something we plan to do annually at this time," DRPA spokesperson Mike Williams tells Axios.

Context: Converting the bridge into a free public promenade is rare.

The last time the bridge opened to pedestrians like this: 2015 for the papal visit.
Before that: in 2001, to mark the bridge's 75th anniversary.

Good thing you don't have to wait until the bridge's 125th anniversary in 2051 to do this again.

The Ben shuts down to traffic a few times a year for charitable events.

That includes on Nov. 1 for the Run the Bridge event, which benefits the Larc Norcross School in Jersey.
But it's pay-to-participate: $30-$65.

Your only other option: The bridge's pedestrian walkway is open daily.

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The next time Ben Franklin Bridge will shut down to traffic

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