The bridge was originally known as the Blackwell's Island Bridge before being renamed the Queensboro Bridge and later the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge.
It is one of the few bridges in New York City that was constructed with a decorative architectural style influenced by the Beaux-Arts movement.
The structure includes an elevator mid-span that provides direct access to Roosevelt Island, making it unique among East River crossings.
The bridge was the setting for a major chase scene in the 2002 Spider-Man film.
The central span over Roosevelt Island is supported by a large stone pier that rests on the island itself.
The bridge was designed by Gustav Lindenthal, with architectural detailing by Henry Hornbostel.
The Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge is a double-decked cantilever bridge spanning the East River between Manhattan and the Long Island City neighborhood of Queens. Completed in 1909, it carries the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge Pedestrian Path, which offers elevated views of the Manhattan skyline and Roosevelt Island. The structure features a unique design involving two cantilever spans meeting at a central point over Roosevelt Island. It serves as a vital arterial connection for vehicular traffic on both the upper and lower levels. The bridge path is accessible to both pedestrians and cyclists, providing a non-vehicular crossing option. It is formally named after former New York City Mayor Ed Koch. The bridge is part of the New York City Department of Transportation's managed infrastructure.
The mid-span vantage point looking westward toward the Chrysler Building and Midtown Manhattan.
Walk the pedestrian path from the Manhattan side toward Queens for the best perspective of the skyline.
Stay alert as the pedestrian path is narrow and frequently shared with high-speed commuter cyclists.
Visit the Roosevelt Island tram nearby if you want to see the bridge structure from a different aerial angle.
Do not attempt to walk on the vehicular roadways; stick strictly to the designated pedestrian and cyclist path.
Cyclists share the path with pedestrians; keep to the right and remain mindful of bike traffic.
