William A. Stickel Memorial Bridge

Beneath the steel girders of the William A. Stickel Memorial Bridge, a story unfolds. This isn’t just any bridge. The William A. Stickel Memorial Bridge is a vertical-lift bridge, a mechanical marvel connecting Newark and East Newark across the Passaic River. It carries the weight of Interstate 280 and countless stories. Named after William A. Stickel, a dedicated Newark civil engineer, the bridge stands as a testament to his over 20 years of service as Essex County engineer. Built between 1948 and 1949, originally as Route 25A, the William A. Stickel Memorial Bridge officially opened on May 1, 1949. It later became part of the interstate system in 1971. Imagine the celebrations that day, as this vital link between communities was inaugurated. The bridge stretches an impressive 209.6 meters, its movable section alone measuring 41.9 meters. This allows for river traffic to pass, a testament to its thoughtful design. This lift bridge is a rarity in the Interstate Highway System, a unique feature in a network of mostly fixed crossings. Until March 3, 1999, a drawtender manned the William A. Stickel Memorial Bridge, ensuring safe passage for boats and vehicles alike. Now, it opens less frequently, requiring a 24-hour notice to the New Jersey Department of Transportation. The bridge’s six lanes accommodate not only through traffic but also those entering and exiting Route 21 at exit 15, just west of the bridge. The William A. Stickel Memorial Bridge wasn’t always a smooth ride. A 2001 report labeled it “structurally deficient and functionally obsolete.” This led to significant rehabilitation work, completed in May 2008. The bridge received mechanical overhauls and a fresh coat of light blue paint, replacing the old black coating. Now, the William A. Stickel Memorial Bridge stands revitalized, a symbol of resilience and connection, carrying the flow of traffic and history across the Passaic River.