Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge in San Francisco, California, that spans the Golden Gate Strait and connects San Francisco with Marin County.
The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge in San Francisco, California, spanning the Golden Gate Strait. Completed in 1937, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States.
What it is
The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge that crosses the Golden Gate Strait, connecting San Francisco with Marin County. Its total length is 8,981 feet (1.7 miles). The bridge is painted in International Orange, a distinctive colour that has become synonymous with its design.
History and construction
Construction began on January 5, 1933, and the bridge opened to vehicular traffic on May 29, 1937. At the time, it had the longest main suspension span in the world. The bridge was designed by Joseph Strauss, Charles Ellis, and Leon Moisseiff.
Why it matters
The bridge carries a major highway corridor and also accommodates pedestrians and cyclists. It is a major engineering landmark and a widely photographed symbol of San Francisco. The bridge is also a common reference point for Canadian travellers.
In short
- Spans the Golden Gate Strait between San Francisco and Marin County.
- Opened in 1937; longest suspension span at the time.
- Painted in International Orange.
- A major transportation route and cultural icon.
The Golden Gate Bridge is a well-known North American landmark and a common reference point for Canadian travellers, students, and media coverage of San Francisco.
Quick questions
Where is the Golden Gate Bridge located?
When was the Golden Gate Bridge built?
What colour is the Golden Gate Bridge?
Sources
- Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District — https://www.goldengate.org/exhibits/facts-and-figures-about-the-bridge/Supports: Construction dates, opening date, and cost
- CNN — https://www.cnn.com/us/golden-gate-bridge-fast-factsSupports: Length, width, colour, vehicle and pedestrian access
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Golden-Gate-BridgeSupports: Location, historical significance, and recognition as an iconic suspension bridge
- Federal Highway Administration — https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/candc/factsheets/goldengatebridge.pdfSupports: Historical facts, main span record at opening, and landmark status
- Presidio Trust — https://presidio.gov/explore/blog/golden-gate-bridge-fun-factsSupports: Construction timeline, designers, colour, and measurements