Today, it is the 75th anniversary of San Francesco's Golden Gate Bridge. It opened in 1937 and it continues to amaze to this day!
USA Today reports that if the Air Force had its way, the bridge would have been red with white strips. If the Navy had muscled in, it would have been yellow with black stripes. However, what really matters is that consultant and architecture Irving Morrow made the decision that the bridge would be International Orange or a shade known as vermillion.
Some people opinioned that the bridge could not and should not be built. However, the top engineer, Joseph Stauss, and his team finished the bridge in less than 4 ½ years. A real feat in 1937 indeed!
How many cars (vehicles) travel this great engineering feat? It is estimated that on average over 120,000 vehicles cross the bridge each day or about 757,000 per week. Furthermore, up to 10,000 walkers and 6,000 cyclists move across the bridge daily. It is stated that taking a walk on a sunny day across the Golden Gate Bridge lifts one's spirit. And remember, if you think that driving is a challenge in the Bay Area, consider life without the bridge!
Just because the bridge is 75 years old, does not mean that some new and exciting things won't be happening. For example, a 3,500 square-feet pavilion with a museum and gift shop is planned. Other new additions will include guided tours, and a photo area in which visitors can pose as if they are standing on the tower. Last, but not least, an updated Bridge Café will offer expanded menu choices.
All I have to say is what a great landmark we have in the San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge. What would cars do without it?
Kyle Busch is the author of "Drive the Best for the Price: How to Buy a Used Automobile, Sport-Utility Vehicle, or Minivan and Save Money." His auto site: DriveTheBestBook.com includes an exclusive article just for you, additional car articles, information about Kyle Busch and his 510,000 mile car, and you can even submit
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