The Design For The Modern Suspension Bridges Was Developed In The 1800’S

A suspension bridge is a bridge with its deckbridge in the United Stated. The largest bridge in the
supported by large cables hung from towers. TheUnited States is the Verrazano-Narrows bridge in New
most popular such bridges are the Golden Gate BridgeYork City. The center span of the Golden Gate Bridge
and the  George Washington Bridge. The first knownwas the longest in the world until the design of the
suspension bridges date back to 100 B.C.Verrazano-Narrows.
The design for the modern suspension bridges wasThe Golden Gate Bridge cost $35 million to build. It was
developed in the 1800’s. The Menai and  Conwyone of the first bridge projects to instill a safety net
suspension bridges opened in 1826 in North Wales. Thebelow it for construction workers. 11 men were killed
Hammersmith in London followed close behind in 1827.during the building of the bridge. 19 others were saved
The suspension bridge is the only type possible to useby falling onto the safety net. 10 of the 11 deaths
for long spans because the cables that hold the bridgehappened at the same time. A scaffold fell and the net
in place can hold an unbelievable amount of weight.failed to work. The 19 workers who’s lives were
These cables are anchored at each end of the bridge.saved formed unique group called the Halfway to Hell
The main cables are attached to the deck levelClub.
supports. Anchors connect the cables underground.The design of the Golden Gate Bridge has withstood
The Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is the bestthe test of time and the elements. The bridge has only
known suspension bridge in the world. It is know for itsbeen closed 3 times due to severe wind conditions.
capabilities as well as appearance. It spans from theThis took place in 1951, 1981, and 1983. Today, over
San Francisco Bay to the Pacific Ocean. This bridge100,000 vehicles travel across every day.
was built in 1937. It is the second largest suspension