Isn’t it remarkable how bridges can define a city’s character? The Union Street Bridge is one such landmark here in Brooklyn. This bridge carries Union Street over the Gowanus Canal. It is more than just a way to get from one side to the other. It’s a piece of Brooklyn’s history.
The Union Street Bridge is a double leaf Scherzer rolling lift bascule bridge. That’s quite a mouthful. In simpler terms, it’s a drawbridge with two sections that lift up to allow boats to pass. This design is called a bascule bridge, and the Union Street Bridge is a particularly fine example of it.
Opened on March 4, 1905, the Union Street Bridge cost $85,206.85 to build. That was a significant sum of money back then. The bridge quickly became an essential part of the neighborhood. It connected communities and facilitated the movement of goods along the Gowanus Canal.
The Gowanus Canal itself has a rich, if somewhat troubled, history. Once a vital industrial waterway, the canal became heavily polluted over the years. Despite its environmental challenges, the canal has always been an important part of Brooklyn’s identity. The Union Street Bridge is a reminder of this industrial past.
Did you know that there were once plans to replace the Union Street Bridge with a fixed bridge? This would have prevented larger boats from navigating the full length of the canal. Fortunately, those plans never materialized. The Union Street Bridge remains a testament to an earlier era of engineering.
Of the five bridges that cross the Gowanus Canal, the Union Street Bridge is the northernmost. Each of these bridges has its own unique story. The Carroll Street Bridge, for example, is one of only two active retractable bridges left in the United States.
When the Union Street Bridge opens, it’s a reminder that the Gowanus is more than just a place for toxic sludge. It is a canal with a rich history all its own. For many years the canal was known for its black mayonnaise. This is the toxic sludge at the bottom of the canal.
Many Brooklyn residents have fond memories of crossing the Union Street Bridge. For some, it was part of their daily commute. For others, it was a gateway to Prospect Park. No matter the reason, the bridge holds a special place in the hearts of many.
As you stand here on the Union Street Bridge, take a moment to appreciate its history. Think about the countless people who have crossed this bridge over the past century. Consider the changes that have taken place in the surrounding neighborhood.
The Union Street Bridge is more than just a structure of metal and concrete. It is a symbol of Brooklyn’s past, present, and future. Next time you cross the Union Street Bridge, remember its story. Remember its significance. It’s a vital piece of the Gowanus Canal’s history.