Why is the Walt Whitman Bridge Green
Built in 1957, the Walt Whitman Bridge is an iconic suspension bridge that spans the Delaware River. It is known for a number of features, but one of the most well-known is its unique green color. The bridge was originally constructed to be painted in a light gray, but the final product was green. The reason why the bridge is green is a combination of factors that resulted in the bridge’s signature color. Contributing factors include the availability of the paint that was used, safety regulations, and cost.
Safety Regulations
At the time the Walt Whitman Bridge was constructed, there were strict regulations regarding the painting of bridges in the United States. The Federal Highway Administration (FHA) mandated that in order to improve visibility, bridges in the US must be painted in light colors such as white, yellow, or green. When deciding which color to use, the FHA chose green because it was the most visible against a variety of backgrounds. This decision ultimately led to the bridge being painted in the distinctive green hue that is seen today.
Availability of Paint
Another factor that influenced the color of the Walt Whitman Bridge was the availability of paints. The bridge was painted using zinc-chloride paint, which was readily available at the time but not in the range of colors that is available today. The paint also had to be able to withstand the harsh weather conditions in the area, which further limited the available colors. Green was the only color that was both available and suitable for the bridge. As a result, the bridge was painted in this color.
Cost Considerations
A third factor that impacted the color choice for the bridge was cost. At the time of its construction, the Walt Whitman Bridge was one of the most expensive bridges in the US, and cost considerations were a major factor in determining the paint color. The zinc-chloride paint used was significantly less expensive than other high-quality paints, and green was the only color available in this type of paint at an affordable price.
Significance of Walt Whitman Bridge
The green hue of the Walt Whitman Bridge is meaningful in and of itself. The bridge is a symbol of progress and opportunity, and the bright green paint job is a reminder of the importance of the bridge’s construction. The bridge serves as a reminder that great things can be accomplished with the right resources and hard work.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
The iconic green color of the bridge also has other benefits, both economic and environmental. The zinc-chloride paint that was used for the bridge is incredibly durable and was estimated to last up to 35 years, which saves money on maintenance costs. In addition, the paint is environmentally friendly and is relatively non-toxic. This ensures that the bridge’s paint job is safe for the environment.
Effect on Visibility and Tourism
The green hue of the Walt Whitman Bridge also has a positive effect on visibility. The bright green color makes the bridge much easier to see, both from a distance and at night, which adds to safety. In addition, the bridge’s unique look has also made it a major tourist destination for both locals and visitors. People come from all over the world just to see the magnificent green bridge spanning the Delaware River.
Conclusion
Ultimately, there are many factors that led to the Walt Whitman Bridge being painted in its iconic green color. The bridge’s bright hue serves an important purpose, both practical and symbolic. It is both a reminder of the significance of the bridge’s construction and a testament to the importance of cost consideration and environmental consciousness. The bridge is a symbol of progress, opportunity, and environmental responsibility, and its green paint job serves as a reminder of this.
