The short answer: The Brooklyn Bridge weighs approximately 14,680 tons (about 13,300 metric tonnes).
Brooklyn Bridge weight by type
Completed in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River and was the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the United States.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Total weight | about 14,680 tons |
| Total length | about 1,825 meters |
| Main material | steel wire, stone, and masonry |
| Completed | 1883 |
What affects Brooklyn Bridge weight
- Steel cables. The pioneering steel-wire suspension cables carry and add to the bridge's weight.
- Stone towers. The massive masonry towers contribute heavily to the total.
- Deck structure. The roadway and walkway add substantial weight.
- Span length. The long span requires extensive material across the East River.
- Anchorages. Large anchor structures hold the cables and add mass.
How Brooklyn Bridge weight compares
At about 14,680 tons, the Brooklyn Bridge weighs roughly as much as 10,000 mid-sized cars, or about 1.5 times the weight of the Eiffel Tower.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Brooklyn Bridge made of?
The Brooklyn Bridge is built from steel-wire suspension cables, limestone and granite masonry towers, and a steel-supported deck. It was the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the United States.
How long is the Brooklyn Bridge?
The Brooklyn Bridge spans about 1,825 meters in total length and crosses the East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn. Its main span was the longest in the world when it opened in 1883.
Why was the Brooklyn Bridge significant?
It was the first steel-wire suspension bridge ever built and was an engineering marvel of its time. Its design influenced suspension bridge construction worldwide.
