The NYSDOT selected Chas. H. Sells, Inc. for the 2004 biennial inspection of the historic Brooklyn Bridge. This is the first time in SELLS’ 78 year history to inspect one of the four East River Bridges. The Brooklyn Bridge was the first suspension bridge built across the East River. It was built to alleviate overcrowding in Manhattan and to enable people and goods to be able to move more freely between Brooklyn and lower Manhattan without relying solely on waterway transportation. This was a tricky endeavor in that the East River is actually a tidal strait and was not only turbulent but was also considered one of the busiest stretches of navigable salt water anywhere. The design plans were approved in 1869 and the Brooklyn Bridge was finally completed in 1883. This 75 span, 5,989 foot bridge is probably one of the most recognizable bridge structures from its gothic style piers. It also boasts four suspension cables with each cable containing 5,434 wires. Unfortunately, in the late 1800’s these cables were often difficult to work with. All told, roughly 27 people died during the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge, including the original designer, John Roebling.

HOME | NEWS | SERVICES | ABOUT SELLS | PROJECT SPOTLIGHTS | INDUSTRY LINKS | CONTACT US | FTP SITE

© 2006 Chas H. Sells, Inc. All rights reserved.