California: Golden Gate Bridge

Protecting an International Icon

Challenge: America’s Golden Gate Bridge, one of seven modern wonders of the world, is an international icon, a tourist attraction, and a symbol of American ingenuity. More practically, the 86-year-old bridge is a commuter route, major avenue for interstate commerce and plays an important role in the area’s response to natural disasters. When the next Loma Prieta strikes, the Bridge will serve as a vital corridor for first responders and critical supplies traveling between San Francisco and the North Bay. While the bridge is safe today, it may experience damage that requires closure after a major seismic event.

The Solution: A seismic retrofit will protect the Golden Gate Bridge against major earthquakes and disasters. The final phase of the project, called Phase 3B, includes strengthening the main span, two side spans, both towers, the south tower pier, and the underside of the toll plaza. With the earlier phases of the retrofit already complete, the bridge can safely withstand an earthquake over 7.0 in magnitude. However, an earthquake of that scale could cause damage and extended closures. The final phase of the Golden Gate Bridge seismic retrofit will help ensure the Bridge remains open in the aftermath of a natural disaster allowing Bay Area residents to respond and recover in the days and weeks that follow.

What They’re Saying: “The Golden Gate Bridge is an international icon and key transportation link for the Bay Area that serves tens of millions of residents and visitors every year,” said Denis Mulligan, district general manager, Golden Gate Bridge Highway & Transportation District. “This vital funding allows us to finish strengthening the Bridge against disasters.”