Bronx–Whitestone Bridge

The Bronx–Whitestone Bridge has a {{Convert|2300|ft|m|adj=on}} main span between its two suspension towers, with the span rising {{Convert|150|ft|m}} above mean high water.{{Cite enc-nyc2|page=837}}{{Rp|115}} The side spans, between suspension towers and anchorages at each end, are {{Convert|735|ft|m}}. Thus, the overall length, from anchorage to anchorage, is {{Convert|3770|ft|m}}.{{cite news|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252024%2FFlushing%2520NY%2520North%2520Shore%2520%2520Daily%2520Journal%2FFlushing%2520NY%2520North%2520Shore%2520%2520Daily%2520Journal%25201938%2FFlushing%2520NY%2520North%2520Shore%2520%2520Daily%2520Journal%25201938%252002250_1.pdf|title=Whitestone-Bronx Bridge To Open In Time For World Fair|date=July 19, 1938|work=North Shore Daily Journal|access-date=October 23, 2018|page=2|via=Fultonhistory.com}} As originally designed, the bridge approach on the Queens side descended to ground level via a {{Convert|1016|ft|m|adj=mid}}-long plate girder viaduct, then another {{Convert|194|ft|m}} on a concrete ramp. The Bronx side's approach descended {{Convert|1861|ft|m}} on a plate girder viaduct, then another {{Convert|266|ft|m}} on a concrete ramp. A toll booth was located on the Bronx side immediately after the end of the concrete ramp.

The span is supported by two main cables, which suspend the deck and are held up by the suspension towers. Each cable is {{Convert|3965|ft|m}} long and contains 9,862 wires, amounting to around {{Convert|14800|mi|km}} of cable length.{{cite news |last=Walker |first=John H. |date=5 Feb 1939 |title=Whitestone Bridge Rises Fast As Northern Gateway to Fair: Three-Year Job in Two Expected to Put Finishing Touches on $18,000,000 Span by April 30, When Exposition Opens Bridging East River With World's Fourth Largest Span |page=A1 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1243015454}}}} Each cable contains 37 strands of 266 wires, which in turn measure {{convert|0.196|in|mm|1}} thick. Each of the suspension towers has a height of {{convert|377|ft|m}} above mean high water.{{Rp|115}}{{cite news |date=30 Apr 1939 |title=Mayor Opens Whitestone Bridge to Fair: 4,000 Hear Attack on Foes of His Economy Drive to Build 'City of Tomorrow' Opening $18,000,000 Span That Will Provide a Short Cut to the Fair |page=1 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1244863164}}}} The caissons, in turn, are submerged about {{convert|165|ft}} beneath mean high water. At each end of the suspension span are two anchorages that hold the main cables, both of which are freestanding concrete structures measuring {{convert|180|by|110|ft|m}}. The width of the bridge deck between the cables is {{Convert|74|ft|m}}.

Unlike other suspension bridges, the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge originally did not have a stiffening truss system. Instead, {{convert|11|ft|m|adj=on}} I-beam girders gave the bridge an Art Deco streamlined appearance. After the 1940 collapse of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, a bridge of similar design, trusses were added on the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge to minimize the span's oscillations.{{Rp|124}}{{cite journal|last1=Barelli|first1=Michael|last2=White|first2=Joshua|last3=Billington|first3=David P.|year=2006|title=History and Aesthetics of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge|journal=Journal of Bridge Engineering|volume=11|issue=2|pages=230–240|doi=10.1061/(ASCE)1084-0702(2006)11:2(230)|issn=1084-0702}} Further modifications to the bridge were made in 1988–1991 and in 2003–2005.

The Bronx–Whitestone Bridge carries Interstate 678 (I-678). In Queens, the Whitestone Expressway (I-678) extends south to an interchange with the Cross Island Parkway, located just past the end of the bridge's approach ramps. There is an exit from the bridge to the southbound Whitestone Expressway service road, and an entrance and exit from the northbound Whitestone Expressway to the northbound service road. In the Bronx, the bridge leads to the Hutchinson River Expressway (I-678). The expressway has exits and entrances in both directions to the Hutchinson River Expressway service roads, which in turn connect to Lafayette Avenue. The expressway continues north to the Bruckner Interchange, where I-678 ends and becomes the Hutchinson River Parkway; there are also connections to the Cross Bronx Expressway (I-95) and to Bruckner Expressway (I-278 and I-95).{{Cite web|url=http://maps.nyc.gov/|title=NYCityMap|website=NYC.gov|publisher=New York City Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications|access-date=2020-03-20|archive-date=May 24, 2015|archive-url=https://archive.today/20150524114059/http://maps.nyc.gov/|url-status=live}}

As most trucks carrying over {{Cvt|80,000|lb|kg}} have been prohibited from using the Throgs Neck Bridge (approximately {{Convert|2|mi|km}} east) since 2005,{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/10/01/nyregion/cracks-on-throgs-neck-spur-a-daytime-ban-on-heavy-trucks.html|title=Cracks on Throgs Neck Spur a Daytime Ban on Heavy Trucks|last=Chan|first=Sewell|date=September 1, 2005|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-date=October 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181008135030/https://www.nytimes.com/2005/10/01/nyregion/cracks-on-throgs-neck-spur-a-daytime-ban-on-heavy-trucks.html|url-status=live}} the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge is suggested as an alternative route for heavy trucks.{{cite web|url=http://web.mta.info/bandt/traffic/trucker.html|title=Truck/Commercial Vehicle Information|website=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|access-date=October 8, 2018|archive-date=October 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181008095711/http://web.mta.info/bandt/traffic/trucker.html|url-status=live}} Tractor-trailers exceeding {{Convert|53|ft||abbr=}} and traveling between central Queens and the Bronx, as well as all heavy trucks over 53 feet that are banned from the Throgs Neck Bridge, are required to use the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge.{{Cite web|url=http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/2015-06-08-truck-map-combined.pdf|title=New York City Truck Route Map|date=June 8, 2015|website=nyc.gov|publisher=New York City Department of Transportation|access-date=September 12, 2017|archive-date=February 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224152640/http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/downloads/pdf/2015-06-08-truck-map-combined.pdf|url-status=dead}}

Image:Whitestone Bridge.jpgThe idea for a fixed crossing between Ferry Point at Clason Point, Bronx, and Whitestone Point at Whitestone, Queens, was first proposed in 1905 by real estate speculators who wanted to develop Whitestone.{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=9O4iJg1-Ks8C&pg=PA95|title=Whitestone|last=Antos|first=J.D.|publisher=Arcadia Pub.|year=2006|isbn=978-0-7385-4628-5|series=Images of America|page=95|access-date=October 20, 2018}} At the time, residents around the proposed area of the bridge protested construction in fear of losing the then-rural character of the community. Plans for the bridge were submitted to the Whitestone Improvement Association in 1909,{{cite news|url=http://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/53881997/|title=From Whitestone to Bronx|date=August 30, 1909|work=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|access-date=October 20, 2018|page=20|via=Brooklyn Public Library; newspapers.com|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020095123/http://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/53881997/|url-status=live}} but they were not acted upon. Queens public administrator Alfred J. Kennedy later recalled that in 1911, while he was in the New York State Assembly, he had proposed such a bridge but that his plan was "ridiculed".

In 1907, the Clason Point, College Point and Malba Ferry Company proposed a ferry route between Clason Point, Bronx, and Malba, Queens, close to the site of the planned bridge.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1907/04/21/archives/inspect-new-ferry-site-aldermanic-committee-goes-to-whitestone-to.html|title=Inspect New Ferry Site; Aldermanic Committee Goes to Whitestone to Look Over the Project.|date=April 21, 1907|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 20, 2018|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020100804/https://www.nytimes.com/1907/04/21/archives/inspect-new-ferry-site-aldermanic-committee-goes-to-whitestone-to.html|url-status=live}} The company was incorporated in 1909,{{cite web|url=http://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/53880589/|title=New Sound Ferry|date=July 10, 1909|work=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|page=22|via=Brooklyn Public Library; newspapers.com|access-date=October 20, 2018}} and two years later it started constructing ferry terminals.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1911/06/25/archives/new-ferry-to-queens-will-connect-college-point-with-clason-point-in.html|title=New Ferry to Queens; Will Connect College Point with Clason Point in the Bronx.|date=June 25, 1911|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 20, 2018|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020100720/https://www.nytimes.com/1911/06/25/archives/new-ferry-to-queens-will-connect-college-point-with-clason-point-in.html|url-status=live}} Ferry operations between Clason Point and Malba began on July 2, 1914.{{cite news|url=http://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/53889974/|title=Clason Point Ferry Now in Operation|date=July 2, 1914|access-date=October 20, 2018|page=22|via=Brooklyn Public Library; newspapers.com|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020095136/http://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/53889974/|url-status=live}}

In 1929, the Regional Plan Association (RPA) proposed a bridge from the Bronx to northern Queens to allow motorists from upstate New York and New England to reach Queens and Long Island without having to first travel through the traffic congestion in western Queens.{{cite news |title=Highway Loop in Plan Skirts Busy Centers |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1929/05/30/archives/highway-loop-in-plan-skirts-busy-centres-proposals-for-region.html |newspaper=The New York Times |date=May 30, 1929 |page=12 |access-date=May 29, 2010 |archive-date=June 16, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616030841/https://www.nytimes.com/1929/05/30/archives/highway-loop-in-plan-skirts-busy-centres-proposals-for-region.html |url-status=live }} The RPA believed that it was necessary to connect the proposed Belt Parkway (now Cross Island Parkway) on the Queens side with the Hutchinson River Parkway and Bruckner Boulevard on the Bronx side.{{cite book|chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=A51VbeqTwogC&pg=PT177|title=Six Bridges: The Legacy of Othmar H. Ammann|last=Rastorfer|first=Darl|publisher=Yale University Press|year=2000|isbn=978-0-300-08047-6|chapter=Chapter 5: The Bronx–Whitestone Bridge|access-date=September 18, 2018}}{{rp|116}} The next year, urban planner Robert Moses formally proposed a Clason Point-to-Whitestone bridge as part of the Belt Parkway around Brooklyn and Queens.{{Cite news|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1930/02/26/92080431.pdf|title=Asks New City Parks To Cost $20,000,000; Metropolitan Conference Urges Prompt Purchases, Chiefly in Queens and Richmond|date=February 26, 1930|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 19, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331}} At the time, it was expected that the bridge would cost $25 million to construct.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24679418/queensbronx_bridge_urged/|title=Queens-Bronx Bridge Urged|last=Duane|first=John|date=April 19, 1931|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 20, 2018|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020095225/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24679418/queensbronx_bridge_urged/|url-status=live}}

In 1932, the New York City Board of Estimate started soliciting applications from private companies to build and operate the crossing as a toll bridge.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1933/06/10/archives/highway-loop-here-near-completion-regional-plan-group-reports.html|title=Highway Loop Here Near Completion; Regional Plan Group Reports Three-fifths of Link Virtually Ready for Operation|date=June 10, 1933|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 20, 2018|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020053151/https://www.nytimes.com/1933/06/10/archives/highway-loop-here-near-completion-regional-plan-group-reports.html|url-status=live}} One such application was made by Charles V. Bossert, who submitted his plan to the Board of Estimate in 1933.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1933/04/21/archives/40000000-bridge-in-bronx-proposed-cv-bossert-to-ask-approval-of.html|title=$40,000,000 Bridge in Bronx Proposed; C.V. Bossert to Ask Approval of Estimate Board for Span to Connect With Queens|date=April 21, 1933|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 20, 2018|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020224107/https://www.nytimes.com/1933/04/21/archives/40000000-bridge-in-bronx-proposed-cv-bossert-to-ask-approval-of.html|url-status=live}} Bossert's plan went as far as U.S. Congress, where in 1935, a bill to approve the construction of Bossert's plan was introduced in the House of Representatives.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24690602/admirals_bullseye_launches_destroyer/|title=Bossert Plans Bridge, Bronx to Whitestone|date=January 24, 1935|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 20, 2018|page=380|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021024656/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24690602/admirals_bullseye_launches_destroyer/|url-status=live}} However, the idea of a private company operating a publicly used toll bridge was unpopular, so it was dropped.{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=z6yE6mWZUcYC&pg=PA193|title=The Long Island Sound: A History of Its People, Places, and Environment|last=Weigold|first=M.E.|publisher=NYU Press|year=2004|isbn=978-0-8147-9400-5|pages=193–194|access-date=October 20, 2018}}

At the same time, the Queens Topological Bureau, Long Island State Park Commission, and Triborough Bridge Authority (TBA; later Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority, or TBTA) was conducting a study on the proposed Bronx–Whitestone Bridge. In 1935, the agencies jointly released a report on the connecting roads to be built as part of the bridge plans, and projected that the bridge would cost $20 million ({{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=20000000|start_year=1932|r=-3|fmt=eq}}).{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24679675/map_highway_plans_for_2boro_bridge/|title=Map Highway Plans for 2-Boro Bridge|date=August 19, 1935|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 20, 2018|page=174|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020054626/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24679675/map_highway_plans_for_2boro_bridge/|url-status=live}} The bridge would directly link the Bronx, and other points on the mainland, to the 1939 New York World's Fair and to LaGuardia Airport (then known as North Beach Airport), both in Queens. In addition, the Whitestone Bridge was to provide congestion relief to the Triborough Bridge, further to the west, which also connected Queens to the Bronx.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1935/01/07/archives/new-road-system-proposed-for-city-regional-plan-offers-15-to-20.html|title=New Road System Proposed For City; Regional Plan Offers 15 to 20 Year Program to Aid Whole Metropolitan Area.|date=January 7, 1935|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 20, 2018|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020224154/https://www.nytimes.com/1935/01/07/archives/new-road-system-proposed-for-city-regional-plan-offers-15-to-20.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last=Morrow |first=C. Earl |date=28 Mar 1937 |title=Whitestone Bridge Construction To Be Rushed as Important Link In World's Fair Road Projects: Regional Plan Official, in Citing Highway Improvements Scheduler to Facilitate Traffic Movements for 1939 Event, Stresses Aid Expected of New Long Island Connection Providing for Traffic Gains on Queens Routes |page=A6 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1240310207}}}} Real estate speculators predicted that the new bridge would also encourage development in the Bronx.{{Cite news|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1938/02/06/96795681.pdf|title=New Bronx Bridge Will Aid Industry; Benefits of Whitestone Span to Borough Are Outlined by Roderick Stevens|date=March 21, 1937|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 19, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331}}{{cite news |last=Stephens |first=Roderick |date=30 Jan 1938 |title=Bronx Property In Position for New Advance: Completion of Whitestone Bridge Expected to Herald New Development |page=C10 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1240449523}}}} New residential units in the Bronx were being planned before construction on the bridge itself even started.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1937/04/15/archives/92-bronx-lots-sold-in-housing-project-realty-firm-plans-homes-in.html|title=92 Bronx Lots Sold In Housing Project; Realty Firm Plans Homes in Area to Be Served by New Whitestone Bridge|date=April 15, 1937|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 22, 2018|archive-date=October 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022232522/https://www.nytimes.com/1937/04/15/archives/92-bronx-lots-sold-in-housing-project-realty-firm-plans-homes-in.html|url-status=live}} The RPA had also recommended that the Whitestone Bridge have rail connections, or space for such connections, but this would have required longer, shallower approach spans; Moses ultimately did not include any provisions for rail connections on the bridge.{{rp|116}}

In 1936, governor Herbert H. Lehman signed a bill that authorized the construction of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge, which would connect Queens and the Bronx.{{Cite news|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1936/05/21/88661224.pdf|title=Lehman Signs Bill For Relief Bonds; Measure Authorizing Referendum on $30,000,000 Issue Is One of Many Approved|date=May 21, 1936|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 19, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=January 18, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230118221533/https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1936/05/21/88661224.html?pdf_redirect=true&site=false|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24695513/queensbronx_span_will_be_started_soon/|title=Bossert Plans Bridge, Bronx to Whitestone|date=May 22, 1936|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 20, 2018|page=471|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021024742/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24695513/queensbronx_span_will_be_started_soon/|url-status=live}} The following January, Lehman signed a bill that allowed the TBA to issue bonds for the construction of the bridge.{{Cite news |date=1937-01-29 |title=Lehman Signs Bridge Bill; Triborough and Whitestone Spans Put Under Joint Authority |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1937/01/29/94329355.pdf |access-date=December 19, 2017 |issn=0362-4331}}{{cite news |date=29 Jan 1937 |title=Lehman Signs Bill Unifying Bridge Projects: Whitestone Bridge Joined With Triborough Authority and Refinanced 53 Million Provided 35 Million To Be Repaid to Finance Corporation |page=11 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1243501259}}}} In February 1937, TBA chief engineer Othmar Ammann announced that the bridge was both "practical and necessary".{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24740070/bronxqueens_bridge_seen_as_necessity/|title=Bronx-Queens Bridge Seen as Necessity|date=February 15, 1937|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 22, 2018|page=201|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022193501/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24740070/bronxqueens_bridge_seen_as_necessity/|url-status=live}} Allston Dana was also hired as the engineer of design.{{cite book | last=Ferriss | first=Hugh | title=The Power of Buildings, 1920-1950: A Master Draftsman's Record | publisher=Dover Publications | series=Dover books on architecture | year=2012 | isbn=978-0-486-13618-9 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=VJjAZfghNkIC&pg=PA99 | page=99}} The same month, approval of a suspension span between Ferry Point and Whitestone was given by Harry Hines Woodring, the United States Secretary of War.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24739982/e_river_span_gets_approval_of_woodring/|title=E. River Span Gets Approval of Woodring|date=February 9, 1937|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 22, 2018|page=514|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022193520/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24739982/e_river_span_gets_approval_of_woodring/|url-status=live}} Around the same time, the TBA made plans to issue bonds to fund the construction of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge.{{Cite news|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1937/02/15/94337177.pdf|title=Whitestone Bridge At Financing Stage; Authority Scans Two Plans for a Bond Issue to Build Bronx-Queens Span|date=February 15, 1937|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 19, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=January 18, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230118221533/https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1937/02/15/94337177.html?pdf_redirect=true&site=false|url-status=live}} Moses recommended the TBA and the city should each be responsible for half of the bridge's $17.5 million cost.{{Cite news|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1937/04/23/94358939.pdf|title=Whitestone Bridge Plan; Moses Tells How He Thinks the $17,500,000 Cost Should Be Split|date=April 23, 1937|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 19, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331}}

In April 1937, the TBA started selling $25 million in bonds to fund the bridge's construction.{{cite news |date=21 Apr 1937 |title=Triborough Bridge Bonds Offered Today: $16,500,000 Sinking Fund 4s, $8,500,000 of Serial Revenue 4s on Market |page=31 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1246877109}}}}{{Cite news |date=1937-04-21 |title=Bridge Authority Offers First Loan; $25,000,000 of Triborough's 4% Revenue Bonds Put on Market Today |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1937/04/21/archives/bridge-authority-offers-first-loan-25000000-of-triboroughs-4.html |access-date=2022-12-22 |issn=0362-4331}} A $1.13 million contract for the construction of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge's towers was awarded in June 1937 to the American Bridge Company, which had beaten the only other competitor, Bethlehem Steel.{{Cite news|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1937/06/24/118976805.pdf|title=Tower Contract Let For Whitestone Span; Triborough Authority Awards Work to American Bridge Company at $1,128,800|date=June 24, 1937|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 19, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331}}{{cite news|url=https://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/52689176/|title=American Bridge Contract Award|date=July 1, 1937|work=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|access-date=October 22, 2018|page=25|via=Brooklyn Public Library; newspapers.com|archive-date=October 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022232523/https://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/52689176/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |date=2 Jul 1938 |title=American Bridge Co. |page=2 |work=Wall Street Journal |issn=0099-9660 |id={{ProQuest|129783265}}}} The same month, the city started buying property that was in the right-of-way for the Whitestone Bridge and Parkway;{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1937/06/19/archives/city-to-purchase-land-for-bridge-plans-launched-for-acquiring.html|title=City To Purchase Land For Bridge; Plans Launched for Acquiring Property for Approaches to Whitestone Span|date=June 19, 1937|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 20, 2018|archive-date=October 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021024840/https://www.nytimes.com/1937/06/19/archives/city-to-purchase-land-for-bridge-plans-launched-for-acquiring.html|url-status=live}} shortly afterward, the rights-of-way for the bridge and parkway were legally designated.{{Cite news|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1937/07/22/94403998.pdf|title=City Gets Queens Land; 2 1/2-Mile Strip Being Taken for Link to Whitestone Bridge|date=July 22, 1937|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 19, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=January 18, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230118221533/https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1937/07/22/94403998.html?pdf_redirect=true&site=false|url-status=live}} All of the TBA bonds had been sold by July 1937.{{cite news |date=22 Jul 1937 |title=Triborough Bridge Bonds Offered Today: $16,500,000 Sinking Fund 4s, $8,500,000 of Serial Revenue 4s on Market |page=27 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1240397472}}}} The next month, the city had started evicting residents in the path of the bridge's approaches, and officials notified seventeen households in Whitestone that they had ten days to find new housing.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1937/08/31/archives/30-in-bridge-path-must-quit-homes-court-orders-queens-sheriff-to.html|title=30 In Bridge Path Must Quit Homes; Court Orders Queens Sheriff to Evict Them by Sept. 9 for Whitestone Approach|date=August 31, 1937|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 20, 2018|archive-date=October 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021065950/https://www.nytimes.com/1937/08/31/archives/30-in-bridge-path-must-quit-homes-court-orders-queens-sheriff-to.html|url-status=live}} This raised controversy because of the short notice given, but Moses said such measures were necessary to complete the bridge on schedule.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1937/08/02/archives/17-families-ordered-to-quit-bridge-site-queens-home-owners-protest.html|title=17 Families Ordered To Quit Bridge Site; Queens Home Owners Protest Notice of Only Ten Days to Find New Quarters|date=August 2, 1937|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 20, 2018|archive-date=October 21, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181021024821/https://www.nytimes.com/1937/08/02/archives/17-families-ordered-to-quit-bridge-site-queens-home-owners-protest.html|url-status=live}} In addition, land in Ferry Point was taken for the construction of the bridge; this land would become Ferry Point Park upon the completion of the bridge.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1937/10/31/archives/bridge-stone-to-be-laid-mayor-to-mark-completion-of-base-for.html|title=Bridge Stone To Be Laid; Mayor to Mark Completion of Base for Whitestone Span.|date=October 31, 1937|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 25, 2018|archive-date=October 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025190108/https://www.nytimes.com/1937/10/31/archives/bridge-stone-to-be-laid-mayor-to-mark-completion-of-base-for.html|url-status=live}}

File:BW3 (13720446683).jpg

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in November 1937, when the Mayor of New York City, Fiorello H. La Guardia, laid the cornerstone for the bridge's Bronx anchorage.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1937/11/02/archives/mayor-lays-stone-for-bronx-bridge-ceremony-marks-completion-of.html|title=Mayor Lays Stone For Bronx Bridge; Ceremony Marks Completion of Anchorage Foundation for Whitestone Span|date=November 2, 1937|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 20, 2018|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020224157/https://www.nytimes.com/1937/11/02/archives/mayor-lays-stone-for-bronx-bridge-ceremony-marks-completion-of.html|url-status=live}} Construction on the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge, along with several other road-improvement projects, was sped up so that the regional road network would be ready in time for the 1939 World's Fair.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1938/03/20/archives/long-island-projects-take-shape-highway-improvements-expected-to.html|title=Long Island Projects Take Shape; Highway Improvements Expected to Relieve Traffic Congestion|last=Mathieu|first=George M.|date=March 20, 1938|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 22, 2018|archive-date=October 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022193603/https://www.nytimes.com/1938/03/20/archives/long-island-projects-take-shape-highway-improvements-expected-to.html|url-status=live}} To ensure that the bridge would be completed before the fair opened, the cofferdam for the Bronx tower had to be finished in February 1938, followed by the Queens tower in April 1938. Moses anticipated that the bridge and connecting roads would need to be complete by June 1, 1939.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24740200/moses_believes_fairs_traffic_solved_by/|title=Moses Believes Fair's Traffic Solved by Long-Range Plan|last=Warren|first=Carl|date=May 10, 1938|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 22, 2018|page=114|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022193503/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24740200/moses_believes_fairs_traffic_solved_by/|url-status=live}} The project also included the construction of the Flushing River Lift Bridge, a drawbridge over the Flushing River a few miles south of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24740304/speed_l_road_approach_to_bronx_bridge/|title=Speed L Road Approach to Bronx Bridge|date=February 6, 1938|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 22, 2018|page=98|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022193523/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24740304/speed_l_road_approach_to_bronx_bridge/|url-status=live}}

The four sections of each of the two suspension towers were assembled in only 18 days.{{cite web|url=http://www.mta.info/press-release/bridges-tunnels/bronx-whitestone-bridge-celebrating-75-years|title=Press Release – Bridges & Tunnels – Bronx–Whitestone Bridge: Celebrating 75 Years|date=April 8, 2014|website=MTA|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-date=August 6, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806165322/http://www.mta.info/press-release/bridges-tunnels/bronx-whitestone-bridge-celebrating-75-years|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last=Lewis |first=John |date=April 29, 1979 |title=Bronx–Whitestone spans 40 years |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25016306/bronxwhitestone_spans_40_years/ |access-date=October 1, 2018 |work=New York Daily News |page=462 |via=Newspapers.com}} The tower on the Bronx side was finished first, and in late May 1938, work began on the Queens tower. At the time, it was expected that the spinning of the suspension cables would begin that September.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24740397/start_spinning_queens_bronx_cables_in/|title=Start Spinning Queens Bronx Cables in Fall|date=May 23, 1938|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 22, 2018|page=198|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022232512/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24740397/start_spinning_queens_bronx_cables_in/|url-status=live}} By the first week of July 1938, the TBA reported that both of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge's towers were completed, and that the bridge was on schedule to open on April 30, 1939, ahead of schedule.{{cite news | title=Queens-Bronx Bridge Due to Open for Fair |page=55 | work=New York Daily News |via=Newspapers.com | date=July 3, 1938 | url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24740509/queensbronx_bridge_due_to_open_for_fair/ | access-date=October 22, 2018}} In addition, the construction of connecting roadways on the Queens and Bronx sides of the bridge was being sped up. The Bronx side of the bridge would connect to the Hutchinson River Parkway, while the Queens side would connect to the Whitestone and Cross Island Parkways.

The process of spinning the bridge's cables commenced in September 1938.{{Cite news|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1938/09/15/96837882.pdf|title=Spinning Of Cables On New Span Begun; Moses, Leading Inspection Party, Gives Signal to Start Wire-Twisting Process|date=September 15, 1938|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 19, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331}}{{cite news|url=http://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/55277264/|title=Spinning Giant Span for Queens|date=September 15, 1938|work=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|access-date=October 25, 2018|page=2|via=Brooklyn Public Library; newspapers.com|archive-date=October 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181026025037/http://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/55277264/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |date=15 Sep 1938 |title=Wires Are Spun For Whitestone Bridge Cables: Officials and Engineers See First Trolleys Start on Supports for Roadway of Authority's New Span Cable Spinning Starts on Bridge Linking Bronx and Queens |page=23 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1244563335}}}} The first cable, which contained 266 strands, was completed within a week.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/image/421951752/?terms=bronx%2Bwhitestone%2Bbridge%2Bcables|title=Bridge Cable Spun in Face of Storm|date=September 25, 1938|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 23, 2018|archive-date=October 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181023234242/https://www.newspapers.com/image/421951752/?terms=bronx%2Bwhitestone%2Bbridge%2Bcables|url-status=live}} The suspender cables were completed within 41 days. That October, work started on the Cross Island Parkway approach to the bridge in Queens.{{cite web | title=Cross Island Link Started in Queens; Harvey, Praising New Project, Manipulates Steam Shovel at Ground-Breaking Ceremony | work=The New York Times | language=en-US | issn=0362-4331 | date=October 27, 1938 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/1938/10/27/archives/cross-island-link-started-in-queens-harvey-praising-new-project.html | access-date=October 22, 2018 | archive-date=October 22, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022193600/https://www.nytimes.com/1938/10/27/archives/cross-island-link-started-in-queens-harvey-praising-new-project.html | url-status=live }} The bridge's opening date was formalized in January 1939,{{cite news |date=19 Jan 1939 |title=Queens-Bronx Bridge to Open Day Before Fair: Whitestone Span Is a Month Ahead of Schedule: Triboro Traffic Increases |page=15 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1253754507}}}} and the last girder was installed on February 13, 1939.{{cite news |date=14 Feb 1939 |title=Last Girder in Place On Whitestone Bridge |page=2 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1254583949}}}}{{Cite news |date=1939-02-14 |title=Jersey 'softens' City Relief Bill; Legislature Gives Localities 18 Months to Pay Debt to Highway Department |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1939/02/14/archives/jersey-softens-city-relief-bill-legislature-gives-localities-18.html |access-date=2022-12-22 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=December 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222203939/https://www.nytimes.com/1939/02/14/archives/jersey-softens-city-relief-bill-legislature-gives-localities-18.html |url-status=live }} Afterward, the construction of the approach roads was sped up in anticipation of the 1939 World's Fair.{{Cite news|url=https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1939/02/26/95761594.pdf|title=New Bridges Tied In; Work Is Speeded on Traffic Links With Whitestone and Triborough Spans|date=February 26, 1939|work=The New York Times|access-date=December 19, 2017|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331}} During construction, one worker died when he fell off the bridge deck.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24771183/falls_105_feet_dies/|title=Falls 105 Feet, Dies|date=March 9, 1939|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 23, 2018|page=45|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181023234235/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24771183/falls_105_feet_dies/|url-status=live}} There was another incident in August 1938 in which a 35-ton steel girder dropped from the side of the Whitestone Bridge, though no one was severely injured.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25319881/35ton_girder_falls_30_jump_to_safety/|title=35-Ton Girder Falls; 30 Jump to Safety|date=July 11, 1936|work=New York Daily News|access-date=November 12, 2018|page=371|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=November 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181112181744/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25319881/35ton_girder_falls_30_jump_to_safety/|url-status=live}} The bridge ultimately cost either $17.785 million (equal to about ${{inflation|index=US|value=17.785|start_year=1939|fmt=c}} million in {{inflation-year|US}}) or $19.6 million (equal to about ${{inflation|index=US|value=19.600|start_year=1939|fmt=c}} million in {{inflation-year|US}}).{{cite news |last=Morris |first=Tom |date=29 Apr 1979 |title=A Tie That Binds Has a Birthday: Birthday Anniversary for a Bridge |work=Newsday |page=7Q |issn=2574-5298 |id={{ProQuest|964417888}}}}

The Bronx–Whitestone Bridge opened on April 29, 1939, with Moses and La Guardia leading a ceremony of 4,000 people.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1939/04/30/archives/whitestone-span-opened-by-mayor-new-bronxlong-island-link-hailed-as.html|title=Whitestone Span Opened By Mayor; New Bronx-Long Island Link Hailed as Symbol of City's Never-Ending Progress|date=April 30, 1939|newspaper=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=November 4, 2007|archive-date=June 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616030452/https://www.nytimes.com/1939/04/30/archives/whitestone-span-opened-by-mayor-new-bronxlong-island-link-hailed-as.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/52709050/|title=New Queens Span Opens in Time for Fair|date=April 30, 1939|work=Brooklyn Daily Eagle|access-date=October 25, 2018|page=1|via=Brooklyn Public Library; newspapers.com|archive-date=October 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181026025043/http://bklyn.newspapers.com/image/52709050/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24833464/bronxwhitestone_bridge_is_opened/|title=Bronx–Whitestone Bridge is Opened|date=April 30, 1939|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 25, 2018|page=43|via=Newspapers.com}} Both the Whitestone and College Point neighborhoods had celebrations for the new project, which Moses described as a "logical and inevitable part of the Belt Parkway program". The bridge featured pedestrian walkways and four lanes of vehicular traffic, and passenger vehicles were initially charged 25 cents. The {{convert|2300|ft|m|adj=on}} center span was the fourth longest in the world at the opening, behind the Golden Gate Bridge, the George Washington Bridge, and the double spans of the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge.{{Rp|115}}{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1939/04/27/archives/whitestone-span-to-open-saturday-mayor-and-other-city-officials.html|title=Whitestone Span To Open Saturday; Mayor and Other City Officials Will Attend Exercises at Bronx End of Bridge|date=April 27, 1939|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-date=June 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180616030753/https://www.nytimes.com/1939/04/27/archives/whitestone-span-to-open-saturday-mayor-and-other-city-officials.html|url-status=live}} The bridge's opening, two months earlier than originally scheduled, coincided with the first day of the 1939 World's Fair.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1939/04/30/archives/1000000-to-see-fair-opening-president-to-speak-at-2-pm-fleet-here.html|title=1,000,000 to See Fair Opening|date=April 30, 1939|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 25, 2018|archive-date=October 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025225618/https://www.nytimes.com/1939/04/30/archives/1000000-to-see-fair-opening-president-to-speak-at-2-pm-fleet-here.html|url-status=live}}

A custom model of lampposts, the "Whitestone" or Type 41 lamppost, was made for the bridge. The lamppost model was later installed on other roads, though it was longer being actively installed by the 1960s, and only a few such lamps remained {{As of|2013|lc=y}}.{{cite web |last=Walsh |first=Kevin |date=August 1, 2013 |title=Whitestone Lamps |url=http://forgotten-ny.com/2013/08/last-of-the-whitestone-lamps/ |access-date=February 22, 2015 |publisher=Greater Astoria Historic Society |archive-date=February 22, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150222141649/http://forgotten-ny.com/2013/08/last-of-the-whitestone-lamps/ |url-status=live }} In preparation for the 1939 World's Fair, amber street lights were installed on the bridge's approach roads, as well as other key corridors around the city. These lamps were distinctly colored so motorists headed to the fair could follow them while driving.{{cite web |date=February 7, 1939 |title=Amber Road Lights Will Lead To Fair; 3,500 Special Globes Will Be Set Up Along Ninety Miles of Arterial Highways |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1939/02/07/archives/amber-road-lights-will-lead-to-fair-3500-special-globes-will-be-set.html |access-date=October 25, 2018 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=October 25, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025225557/https://www.nytimes.com/1939/02/07/archives/amber-road-lights-will-lead-to-fair-3500-special-globes-will-be-set.html |url-status=live }} At its north end, the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge was to connect with Eastern Boulevard (later known as Bruckner Boulevard) via the Hutchinson River Parkway.{{cite map|title=New York|publisher=Esso|year=1940|cartography=General Drafting}} At its south end, the bridge was to connect with the new Whitestone Parkway, which led southwest off the bridge to Northern Boulevard.{{cite map|title=New York with Pictorial Guide|publisher=Esso|year=1942|cartography=General Drafting}} The connection between the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge and Whitestone Parkway opened in November 1940,{{cite web |date=November 13, 1939 |title=Harvey To Open New Road; $700,000 Highway Links Whitestone Bridge to Fair Boulevard |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1939/11/13/archives/harvey-to-open-new-road-700000-highway-links-whitestone-bridge-to.html |access-date=October 25, 2018 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=June 18, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180618230703/https://www.nytimes.com/1939/11/13/archives/harvey-to-open-new-road-700000-highway-links-whitestone-bridge-to.html |url-status=live }} while the Hutchinson River Parkway between Pelham Bay Park and the bridge opened in October 1941.{{cite web |date=October 11, 1941 |title=Whitestone Link To Be Open Today; Ceremonies to Mark the First Use of Hutchinson River Parkway Extension |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1941/10/11/archives/whitestone-link-to-be-open-today-ceremonies-to-mark-the-first-use.html |access-date=October 25, 2018 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=October 25, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025231118/https://www.nytimes.com/1941/10/11/archives/whitestone-link-to-be-open-today-ceremonies-to-mark-the-first-use.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |date=11 Oct 1941 |title=New Parkway In Bronx To Be Opened Today: Hutchinson Extension Leads to Whitestone Bridge; Rockaway Road Opened |page=13 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1266836389}}}} The Whitestone and Hutchinson River parkways intersected Bruckner Boulevard at a traffic circle, where congestion worsened over subsequent decades until the Bruckner Interchange replaced the circle in the 1970s.{{Cite news |last=Hershey |first=Edward |date=1973-04-08 |title=Breakthrough on the Bruckner |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/newsday-nassau-edition-breakthrough-on/143357103/ |access-date=2024-03-14 |work=Newsday |pages=17}} On the Queens side, an extension of Francis Lewis Boulevard opened in November 1939, connecting northeastern Queens with the new bridge,{{cite news |date=16 Nov 1939 |title=New Approach Opened For Whitestone Bridge: Francis Lewis Boulevard in Queens Dedicated |page=21 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1253498756}}}}{{Cite news |date=1939-11-16 |title=New Boulevard Opened; Francis Lewis Road in Queens Is Whitestone Bridge Appoach |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1939/11/16/archives/new-boulevard-opened-francis-lewis-road-in-queens-is-whitestone.html |access-date=2022-12-22 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=December 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222203937/https://www.nytimes.com/1939/11/16/archives/new-boulevard-opened-francis-lewis-road-in-queens-is-whitestone.html |url-status=live }} while the Cross Island Parkway approach opened in June 1940.{{Cite news |date=June 29, 1940 |title=Belt Road to Open to Traffic Today; in the $30,000,000 Belt Parkway System Built 'Around the Town' |language=en-US |page=12 |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1940/06/29/archives/belt-road-to-open-to-traffic-today-in-the-30000000-belt-parkway.html |access-date=December 21, 2022 |issn=0362-4331}}{{cite news |date=June 29, 1940 |title=Belt Parkway To Open With Parade Today: Motor Cavalcade lo Leave Owl's Head Park at Noon, Go to Whitestone Bridge An Aerial Glimpse and Map of the Belt Parkway |page=10 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1266809068}}}}

La Guardia said the bridge could carry up to 4,000 cars per hour in each direction. Within the first two months of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge's opening, it had carried just over a million vehicles, and the bridge was collecting an average of $4,232 a day in tolls.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1939/07/26/archives/whitestone-span-earns-4232-a-day-report-on-2month-operation-shows.html|title=Whitestone Span Earns $4,232 A Day Report on 2-Month Operation Shows It Is Not Cutting Into Triborough Traffic|date=July 26, 1939|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 25, 2018|archive-date=October 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181026025052/https://www.nytimes.com/1939/07/26/archives/whitestone-span-earns-4232-a-day-report-on-2month-operation-shows.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |date=26 Jul 1939 |title=1,054,295 Vehicles Cross New Whitestone Bridge |page=19 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1252166472}}}} In 1940, the American Institute of Steel Construction recognized the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge as the "most beautiful monumental steel bridge completed during the last year".{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1940/06/20/archives/whitestone-bridge-wins-beauty-prize-selected-as-finest-bridge.html|title=Whitestone Bridge Wins Beauty Prize; Selected As Finest Bridge Erected In 1939|date=June 20, 1940|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 25, 2018|archive-date=October 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025225607/https://www.nytimes.com/1940/06/20/archives/whitestone-bridge-wins-beauty-prize-selected-as-finest-bridge.html|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2520-%25202307.pdf|title=Bronx–Whitestone Bridge Awarded Beauty Honors|date=June 19, 1940|work=Long Island Daily Press|access-date=October 7, 2018|via=Fultonhistory.com}} Additionally, two parks were opened following the bridge's completion. A {{Convert|10|acre|ha|adj=on}} park under the Queens side of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge, named for Declaration of Independence signatory Francis Lewis, was opened in 1940.{{Cite news|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2520-%25201162.pdf|title=10-Acre Park Dedicated At Whitestone Bridge|date=April 27, 1940|work=Long Island Daily Press|access-date=October 25, 2018|page=3|via=Fultonhistory.com}} On the Bronx side, the blueprint for Ferry Point Park had been developed in conjunction with the bridge's construction, and additional facilities were added in the early 1940s.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1941/08/11/archives/city-recreation-center-nearing-completion.html|title=City Recreation Center Nearing Completion|date=August 11, 1941|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 25, 2018|archive-date=October 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025225532/https://www.nytimes.com/1941/08/11/archives/city-recreation-center-nearing-completion.html|url-status=live}}

Image:Bronx-Whitestone Bridge.jpg

As early as June 1938, engineers observed oscillations in the Whitestone Bridge's deck.{{cite news |date=5 Dec 1940 |title=Cure Is Found For Whitestone Bridge Motion: Moses Says New Cables Will Halt Swaying, Which Is Not Dangerous Variety |page=22 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1263336130}}}} Concerns grew after the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge in Tacoma, Washington, collapsed during heavy winds in November 1940.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1940/11/08/archives/big-tacoma-bridge-crashes-190-feet-into-puget-sound-narrows-span.html|title=Big Tacoma Bridge Crashes 190 Feet Into Puget Sound; Narrows Span, Third Longest of Type in World, Collapses in Wind—4 Escape Death|date=November 8, 1940|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 25, 2018|archive-date=October 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025225555/https://www.nytimes.com/1940/11/08/archives/big-tacoma-bridge-crashes-190-feet-into-puget-sound-narrows-span.html|url-status=live}} It had employed an {{convert|8|ft|m|adj=on}}-deep girder system, much like the {{convert|11|ft|m|adj=on}} I-beam girders of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge. However, the Whitestone Bridge was shorter and wider than the Tacoma Narrows Bridge.{{cite news|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2FJamaica%2520NY%2520Long%2520Island%2520Daily%2520Press%25201940%2520-%25205219.pdf|title=Ill-Fated Tacoma Bridge Was Similar to Whitestone Span|date=November 3, 1940|work=Long Island Daily Press|access-date=October 23, 2018|page=1|via=Fultonhistory.com}} The Bronx–Whitestone Bridge's deck was also thicker than that of the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, which was only {{convert|8|ft|m}} thick to the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge's {{convert|11|ft|m}}.{{Rp|120}} Overall, the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge was less prone to oscillation and critical failure, as it was not as flimsy as the Tacoma Narrows Bridge. After performing a series of experiments on the bridge's design, Ammann concluded that additional measures to stiffen the Whitestone Bridge were unnecessary.{{Rp|124}} A Princeton University professor separately created a model of the bridge, finding that the Whitestone Bridge's main span could still oscillate in as many as three segments.

Even so, the public was scared by the fact that the two bridges were similar in design, and this led to a belief that the Whitestone Bridge might be unstable, as Moses later related.{{Rp|124}}{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1979/04/30/archives/moses-90-nostalgic-about-whitestone-bridge-40-koch-missed-the.html|title=Moses, 90, Nostalgic About Whitestone Bridge. 40|last=Maitland|first=Leslie|date=April 30, 1979|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-date=November 16, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181116131748/https://www.nytimes.com/1979/04/30/archives/moses-90-nostalgic-about-whitestone-bridge-40-koch-missed-the.html|url-status=live}} Shortly after the Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapse, Moses announced that steel cable stays would be installed on the bridge's towers to reduce oscillation.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1940/12/05/archives/cables-to-end-sway-in-whitestone-bridge-moses-denies-tacoma-crash.html|title=Cables to End Sway in Whitestone Bridge; Moses Denies Tacoma Crash Caused Change|date=December 5, 1940|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 25, 2018|archive-date=October 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181025225530/https://www.nytimes.com/1940/12/05/archives/cables-to-end-sway-in-whitestone-bridge-moses-denies-tacoma-crash.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |date=5 Dec 1940 |title=Whitestone Bridge Stays To Reduce Oscillation |page=3 |work=The Christian Science Monitor |id={{ProQuest|515673304}}}} To mitigate the risk of failure from high winds, eight stay cables, two on each side of both suspension towers, were proposed for installation.{{Rp|124}} The stays were supposed to be completed in January 1941. Although $1 million was initially allocated for the bridge-stiffening project, construction was deferred due to material and labor shortages during World War II.{{cite news |date=May 27, 1943 |title=Triborough Bridge Plans Adjustment |pages=20 |work=Brooklyn Daily Eagle |url=https://bklyn.newspapers.com/clip/115026380/triborough-bridge-plans-adjustment/ |access-date=October 29, 2018 |via=Brooklyn Public Library; newspapers.com}}

Planning for the project resumed in September 1945 at the end of the war,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24945241/brooklyn_tunnel_bronx_bridge_plans/|title=Brooklyn Tunnel, Bronx Bridge Plans Pushed as War Bars Lift|last=Mason|first=Richard|date=September 13, 1945|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 29, 2018|page=612|via=Newspapers.com}}{{Cite news |date=1945-09-13 |title=2 Projects Here to Go on; WPB Controls Off on Whitestone Bridge and Battery Tunnel |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1945/09/13/archives/2-projects-here-to-go-on-wpb-controls-off-on-whitestone-bridge-and.html |access-date=2022-12-22 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=December 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222205803/https://www.nytimes.com/1945/09/13/archives/2-projects-here-to-go-on-wpb-controls-off-on-whitestone-bridge-and.html |url-status=live }} and a low bidder for the project was announced that October.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1945/10/24/archives/bid-on-bridge-job-10-over-42-level-widening-stiffening-painting-of.html|title=Bid On Bridge Job 10% Over '42 Level; Widening, Stiffening, Painting of Whitestone Span Can Be Done for $1,312,225|date=October 24, 1945|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 29, 2018|archive-date=October 29, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181029232522/https://www.nytimes.com/1945/10/24/archives/bid-on-bridge-job-10-over-42-level-widening-stiffening-painting-of.html|url-status=live}} The project's primary goal was to reinforce the bridge with trusses, thus ensuring the bridge's stability. The four lanes of roadway traffic were widened to six lanes, with the two additional lanes replacing the pedestrian walkways on each side. On both sides of the deck, {{convert|14|ft|m|adj=on}}-high steel trusses were installed to weigh down and stiffen the bridge in an effort to reduce oscillation. The stiffening project was completed in 1947.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24943447/battery_tunnel_needs_dough_seek_us/|title=Battery Tunnel Needs Dough; Seek U.S. Loan|date=July 28, 1947|work=New York Daily News|access-date=October 29, 2018|page=401|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=October 30, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181030035409/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24943447/battery_tunnel_needs_dough_seek_us/|url-status=live}} The bridge was repainted in 1953,{{cite news |date=11 Jun 1953 |title=Steeplejacks Give 363-Foot Towers of the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge Their First Coat of Paint in Six Years |page=31 |work=The New York Times |issn=0362-4331 |id={{ProQuest|112805371}}}} and large overhead signs were installed on the bridge the same year to direct motorists toward the Whitestone and Cross Island parkways.{{Cite news |date=1953-03-17 |title=Overhead Signs to Sort Out Queens Parkway Traffic |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1953/03/17/archives/overhead-signs-to-sort-out-queens-parkway-traffic.html |access-date=2024-03-14 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

By the late 1950s, the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge was carrying nearly 30 million vehicles a year.{{Cite news |date=1958-02-03 |title=Triborough Notes Traffic Problem; Authority's Report for 1957 Asks 'Realistic' Approach to Crossing Manhattan |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1958/02/03/archives/triborough-notes-traffic-problem-authoritys-report-for-1957-asks.html |access-date=2024-03-14 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} Concurrently, the Whitestone Parkway and the portion of the Hutchinson River Parkway between the bridge and the Bruckner Interchange were converted to Interstate Highway standards. The Whitestone Parkway became the Whitestone Expressway, and the upgraded part of the Hutchinson River Parkway became the Hutchinson River Expressway.{{cite map|title=Long Island and New York City|year=1962|author=Rand McNally and Company|scale=1:82,902|location=Chicago|publisher=Rand McNally and Company|inset=Long Island (Western Section)|oclc=55707497}}{{cite map|title=New York Happy Motoring Guide|author1=Esso|author2=General Drafting|year=1963|edition=1963|scale=1:687,000|location=Convent Station, NJ|publisher=Esso|inset=Northern approaches to New York City|oclc=26606599}} In addition, the Van Wyck Expressway between John F. Kennedy International Airport and Kew Gardens was extended northward to connect with the Whitestone Expressway and the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge.{{Cite news|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201961%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201961%2520b%2520-%25201699.pdf|title=Highway Work Set on 3 New Projects|date=December 7, 1961|work=Long Island Star-Journal|page=2|via=Fultonhistory.com|access-date=November 1, 2018|archive-date=January 18, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230118222036/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2014/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201961/Long%20Island%20City%20NY%20Star%20Journal%201961%20b%20-%201699.pdf|url-status=live}} By 1966, the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge had been designated as part of Interstate 678, along with the Whitestone Expressway.{{cite news |last=Zinman |first=Dave |date=12 Apr 1966 |title=Queries Meet Fork in Road In 678 Dispute |work=Newsday |page=21 |issn=2574-5298 |id={{ProQuest|915217479}}}} These highway upgrades were performed in preparation for the 1964 New York World's Fair, which was also held in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.

Also by the 1950s, the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge was nearing its traffic capacity because it was the easternmost crossing of the East River between the Bronx and Queens.{{cite news |last=Asimov |first=Stan |date=17 Jan 1955 |title=New Spans, Roads Urged, Llers Would By-Pass City |work=Newsday |page=4 |issn=2574-5298 |id={{ProQuest|875389539}}}}{{Cite news|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252014%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201958%2FLong%2520Island%2520City%2520NY%2520Star%2520Journal%25201958%2520-%25200997.pdf|title=Whitestone Span Traffic Dips|date=February 3, 1958|work=Long Island Star-Journal|pages=5|via=Fultonhistory.com}}{{cite news|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252024%2FNew%2520York%2520NY%2520Post%2FNew%2520York%2520NY%2520Post%25201960%2FNew%2520York%2520NY%2520Post%25201960%2520B%2520-%25200595.pdf|title=Throgs Neck Span May End Tieups at Whitestone Bridge|date=December 29, 1960|work=New York Post|access-date=October 6, 2018|pages=25|via=Fultonhistory.com|archive-date=January 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125010803/https://fultonhistory.com/Newspaper%2024/New%20York%20NY%20Post/New%20York%20NY%20Post%201960/New%20York%20NY%20Post%201960%20B%20-%200595.pdf|url-status=live}} To alleviate traffic loads on the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge, planning for the Throgs Neck Bridge to the east, started in 1955,{{Cite news |last=Ingraham |first=Joseph C. |date=1955-04-21 |title=Study of Traffic for Bridge Made; Triborough and Whitestone Users Questioned to Give Data for Throgs Neck |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1955/04/21/archives/study-of-traffic-for-bridge-made-triborough-and-whitestone-users.html |access-date=2022-12-22 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=October 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181007073829/https://www.nytimes.com/1955/04/21/archives/study-of-traffic-for-bridge-made-triborough-and-whitestone-users.html |url-status=live }} and construction of that bridge began in 1957.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1957/10/23/archives/bridge-started-at-throgs-neck-moses-and-5-other-officials-break.html|title=Bridge Started At Throgs Neck; Moses and 5 Other Officials Break Ground for First of 3 Traffic-Relief Projects|date=October 23, 1957|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 7, 2018|archive-date=October 7, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181007073843/https://www.nytimes.com/1957/10/23/archives/bridge-started-at-throgs-neck-moses-and-5-other-officials-break.html|url-status=live}} After the Throgs Neck Bridge opened in 1961, the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge recorded a corresponding 40% decline in traffic;{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1962/03/31/archives/bridge-use-shows-shift-in-traffic-authority-reports-a-40-decline-in.html|title=Bridge Use Shows Shift In Traffic; Authority Reports a 40% Decline in Autos Using Whitestone Crossing|last=Stengren|first=Bernard|date=March 31, 1962|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 7, 2018|archive-date=October 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181008062748/https://www.nytimes.com/1962/03/31/archives/bridge-use-shows-shift-in-traffic-authority-reports-a-40-decline-in.html|url-status=live}} according to a TBTA executive, traffic on the bridge ultimately decreased by more than half.{{cite news |last=Hanrahan |first=Michael |date=January 9, 1986 |title=Bridge chief refloats NY-Conn crossing |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25016798/bridge_chief_refloats_nyconn_crossing/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125195340/https://www.newspapers.com/article/daily-news-bridge-chief-refloats-ny-conn/25016798/ |archive-date=January 25, 2024 |access-date=November 1, 2018 |work=New York Daily News |page=254 |via=Newspapers.com}} Soon afterward, the 1964 World's Fair resulted in an increase in traffic on the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1964/10/19/archives/toll-booths-on-way-to-queens-profited-from-extra-traffic.html|title=Toll Booths on Way To Queens Profited From Extra Traffic|date=October 19, 1964|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-date=July 8, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230708050207/https://www.nytimes.com/1964/10/19/archives/toll-booths-on-way-to-queens-profited-from-extra-traffic.html|url-status=live}} In 1968, a heavy storm with winds of up to {{Convert|80|mph|km/h}} caused the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge's deck to bounce,{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1968/11/13/archives/bridge-and-ferry-users-have-rough-crossings-bronxwhitestone-bounces.html|title=Bridge and Ferry Users Have Rough Crossings; Bronx–Whitestone Bounces, Causing Many to Leave Cars – Boats Delayed 2 Hours|last=Perlmutter|first=Emanuel|date=November 13, 1968|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-date=July 8, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230708050149/https://www.nytimes.com/1968/11/13/archives/bridge-and-ferry-users-have-rough-crossings-bronxwhitestone-bounces.html|url-status=live}} though the additional trusses helped to reduce vertical movements. No one was injured, and officials stated that the bridge was not in danger of collapsing during the storm.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25016494/traffic_snarled_by_heavy_snow/|title=Traffic Snarled by Heavy Snow|date=April 29, 1979|work=Elmira Star-Gazette|access-date=October 1, 2018|page=2|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=January 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125195342/https://www.newspapers.com/article/star-gazette-traffic-snarled-by-heavy-sn/25016494/|url-status=live}}

In the long run, use of the bridge continued to grow. By the bridge's 40th anniversary in 1979, there were about 31 million vehicles using the bridge annually.{{Cite news |last=Maitland |first=Leslie |date=1979-04-30 |title=Moses, 90, Nostalgic About Whitestone Bridge. 40 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1979/04/30/archives/moses-90-nostalgic-about-whitestone-bridge-40-koch-missed-the.html |access-date=2024-03-14 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} The bridge had recorded a total of 858 million vehicular crossings over its lifetime. By 1985, the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge carried 35 million vehicles annually, more than the 33 million recorded in 1960, before the Throgs Neck Bridge had opened as an alternate route. There had been several plans to build a Long Island Sound bridge east of the Bronx–Whitestone and Throgs Neck bridges to relieve traffic on these crossings, although such a bridge remained unbuilt in the 21st century. After concrete debris fell from the bridge's Queens approach viaduct in 1985, the TBTA repaired the approach.{{Cite news |last=Fried |first=Joseph P. |date=1985-07-20 |title=Falling Concrete Causes Queens Park to Close |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1985/07/20/nyregion/falling-concrete-causes-queens-park-to-close.html |access-date=2024-03-14 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} Upon the bridge's 50th anniversary in 1989, a New York Times writer said: "The Bronx-Whitestone Bridge amounted to soaring evidence that dreams can come true."{{Cite news |last=Martin |first=Douglas |date=1989-06-17 |title=About New York; Bridges Are Built Out of Dreams (And Resources) |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/06/17/nyregion/about-new-york-bridges-are-built-out-of-dreams-and-resources.html |access-date=2024-03-14 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

In March 1990, the TBTA announced that the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge would undergo a $20.3 million refurbishment. The anchorages, roadways, and drainage were to be repaired during off-peak hours for two years.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25016883/bridge_to_get_20m_lift/|title=Bridge to get 20M lift|last=Davila|first=Albert|date=March 14, 1990|work=New York Daily News|access-date=November 1, 2018|page=433|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=January 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125195242/https://www.newspapers.com/article/daily-news-bridge-to-get-20m-lift/25016883/|url-status=live}} Actual work took place between December 1989 and December 1991. As the Throgs Neck Bridge was being repaired simultaneously, this caused major traffic jams at both bridges.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25018331/closed_lanes_cause_jams/|title=Closed lanes cause jams|last=Lewis|first=John|date=August 1, 1991|work=New York Daily News|access-date=November 1, 2018|page=433|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=January 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125195237/https://www.newspapers.com/article/daily-news-closed-lanes-cause-jams/25018331/|url-status=live}} During the renovation, the bridge's expansion joints were replaced by the American Bridge Company, which had originally built the suspension towers. However, in 1993, the sealant around the joints was observed to be deteriorating, necessitating additional repairs.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/25017022/the_whitestone_needs_bridgework/page=433|title=The Whitestone needs bridgework again...already|last=Chang|first=Dean|date=January 21, 1993|work=New York Daily News|access-date=November 1, 2018|page=214|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=January 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125195353/https://www.newspapers.com/article/daily-news-the-whitestone-needs-bridgewo/25017022/|url-status=live}}Image:Whitestbrbronxjeh.JPG

By 2001, the TBTA's successor Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) planned to spend $286 million in bridge renovations. In 2003, the MTA restored the classic lines of the bridge by removing the stiffening trusses and installing fiberglass fairing along both sides of the road deck.{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2003/10/12/nyregion/neighborhood-report-whitestone-onetime-thing-beauty-gets-little-prettying-up.html|title=A Onetime Thing of Beauty Gets a Little Prettying Up|last=Roth|first=Alisa|date=October 12, 2003|newspaper=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=April 4, 2010|archive-date=May 27, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150527232437/http://www.nytimes.com/2003/10/12/nyregion/neighborhood-report-whitestone-onetime-thing-beauty-gets-little-prettying-up.html|url-status=live}} The lightweight fiberglass fairing is triangular in shape, giving it an aerodynamic profile that allows crosswinds to flow through the bridge rather than hit the trusses.{{cite web |url=http://www.mta.info/mta/news/newsroom/bt-031024-bw.htm |title=A New Look for a Classic Bridge |archive-date=March 5, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090305225104/http://www.mta.info/mta/news/newsroom/bt-031024-bw.htm |publisher=MTA Newsroom, Bridges & Tunnels |access-date=November 2, 2007 }} The removal of the trusses and other changes to the decking reduced the bridge's weight by 6,000 tons, accounting for some 25% of the mass suspended by the cables, In addition, with the truss removals, the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge was able to withstand crosswinds of up to {{Convert|150|mph|kph}}, whereas the trusses could resist crosswinds of no more than {{Convert|50|mph|kph}}.{{cite web|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24945100/whitestone_facelift/|title=Whitestone face-lift|last=Carleo-Evangelist|first=Jordan|date=October 5, 2003|work=New York Daily News|page=97|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=October 29, 2018|archive-date=October 29, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181029232420/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/24945100/whitestone_facelift/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://www.qgazette.com/news/2005-05-25/Front_page/002.html|title=Bronx–Whitestone Bridge Rehab|last=Wilson|first=Linda J.|date=May 25, 2005|website=Queens Gazette|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160625090642/http://www.qgazette.com/news/2005-05-25/Front_page/002.html|archive-date=June 25, 2016|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/18/nyregion/18bridge.html|title=A Bridge Too Fat|last=Chan|first=Sewell|date=February 18, 2005|newspaper=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=July 28, 2008|author-link=Sewell Chan|archive-date=January 25, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125195237/https://www.nytimes.com/2005/02/18/nyregion/a-bridge-too-fat.html|url-status=live}} The truss removal project also involved upgrading the lighting systems, including the bridge's lightbulbs and the beacons atop the suspension towers, as well as replacing the sprinkler and electrical systems.

In 2005, it was announced that the bridge's deck had to be replaced with a new steel orthotropic deck composed of prefabricated panels. One lane at a time needed to be closed and replaced, so as to minimize traffic disruptions. During the deck replacement, five lanes were kept open at all times using a movable barrier, with three Bronx-bound lanes during the morning rush hour and three Queens-bound lanes during the evening rush.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/02/nyregion/metro-briefing-new-york-bridge-repair-is-rescheduled.html|title=Metro Briefing – New York: Bridge Repair Is Rescheduled|last=Chan|first=Sewell|date=June 2, 2005|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-date=May 29, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150529170253/http://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/02/nyregion/metro-briefing-new-york-bridge-repair-is-rescheduled.html|url-status=live}} Other renovations included adding mass dampers to stabilize the bridge deck; repainting the two towers and the bridge deck; and installing variable-message signs.{{cite web | title=Press Release – Bridges & Tunnels – Bronx–Whitestone Bridge:$192.8 Million Contract Awarded for Major Reconstruction at Bronx Approach | website=MTA | date=November 1, 2008 | url=http://www.mta.info/press-release/bridges-tunnels/bronx-whitestone-bridge1928-million-contract-awarded-major | access-date=October 1, 2018 | archive-date=August 6, 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806160034/http://www.mta.info/press-release/bridges-tunnels/bronx-whitestone-bridge1928-million-contract-awarded-major | url-status=live }} The deck replacement was completed by 2007.{{cite web |last=Chan |first=Sewell |date=April 29, 2009 |title=70th Birthday of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge |url=https://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/29/70th-birthday-of-the-bronx-whitestone-bridge/ |access-date=October 1, 2018 |website=City Room |publisher=The New York Times |archive-date=October 1, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191001021442/https://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/29/70th-birthday-of-the-bronx-whitestone-bridge/ |url-status=live }} However, cracks were soon observed in some of the new panels, and by 2014, cracks had been observed in 66 of 408 panels, necessitating approximately {{Convert|1,000|ft|m}} of rib welds.{{cite journal|last1=Fisher|first1=John W.|last2=Barsom|first2=John M.|year=2016|title=Evaluation of Cracking in the Rib-to-Deck Welds of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge|journal=Journal of Bridge Engineering|publisher=American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)|volume=21|issue=3|pages=04015065|doi=10.1061/(asce)be.1943-5592.0000823|issn=1084-0702}} The renovations were intended to extend the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge's lifespan indefinitely. These improvements also accommodated the bridge's high traffic volumes: by 2008, the bridge was being used by an average of 120,000 vehicles a day, amounting to 43 million crossings that year.

The Queens and Bronx approaches were replaced in a project that started in 2008. As part of the project, each of the approaches' lanes was widened to {{convert|12|ft|m}}. The replacement of the bridge's approaches involved replacing 15 supporting piers and {{convert|1785|ft|m}} of roadway on the Bronx side, as well as {{convert|1010|ft|m}} of viaduct on the Queens side, which helped support the wider lanes. The contract for the Bronx viaduct replacement was awarded in 2008,{{cite web|url=https://www.bxtimes.com/stories/2008/49/doc4936b0fa9096c821748491.html|title=Bronx–Whitestone Bridge approach upgrade|date=December 5, 2008|website=Bronx Times|access-date=February 24, 2018|archive-date=March 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312092623/https://www.bxtimes.com/stories/2008/49/doc4936b0fa9096c821748491.html|url-status=live}} and it was completed in late 2012 at a cost of $212 million.{{cite web |date=October 16, 2012 |title=Bronx–Whitestone Bridge gets wider, safer lanes |url=http://www.bxtimes.com/stories/2012/41/40_bridge_2012_10_04_bx.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130330234414/https://www.bxtimes.com/stories/2012/41/40_bridge_2012_10_04_bx.html |archive-date=March 30, 2013 |access-date=October 30, 2018 |website=Bronx Times}} The replacement of the Queens approach, which cost $109 million, was completed in May 2015.{{cite web|url=http://www.mta.info/press-release/bridges-tunnels/bronx-whitestone-queens-approach-reconstruction-project-completed|title=Press Release – Bridges & Tunnels – Bronx–Whitestone Queens Approach Reconstruction Project Completed With Reopening of Third Avenue Exit|date=May 8, 2015|website=MTA|access-date=February 24, 2018|archive-date=March 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312083647/http://www.mta.info/press-release/bridges-tunnels/bronx-whitestone-queens-approach-reconstruction-project-completed|url-status=live}}{{cite conference|last1=Du|first1=Mangtao (Monty)|last2=Zellers|first2=Daniela|last3=Wang|first3=Joe|last4=Pepe|first4=Frank|last5=Saladino|first5=Christopher|date=June 6, 2018|title=New Bronx–Whitestone Bridge Approach Foundations Design and Construction|pages=196–211 |publisher=American Society of Civil Engineers|location=Reston, VA|doi=10.1061/9780784481615.016|isbn=978-0-7844-8161-5}} During the renovation of that approach, the exit from northbound I-678 to Third Avenue was closed and rehabilitated.{{cite news | title=Whitestone exit ramp now open to traffic | date=May 18, 2015 | last=Toure | first=Medina | website=TimesLedger | url=http://www.timesledger.com/stories/2015/20/thirdave_2015_05_15_q.html | access-date=October 30, 2018 | archive-date=July 8, 2017 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170708124623/http://www.timesledger.com/stories/2015/20/thirdave_2015_05_15_q.html | url-status=live }}

{{as of|2023|08|06|df=us}}, drivers pay $11.19 per car or $4.71 per motorcycle for tolls by mail/non-NYCSC E-Z Pass. E-ZPass users with transponders issued by the New York E‑ZPass Customer Service Center pay $6.94 per car or $3.02 per motorcycle. Mid-Tier NYCSC E-Z Pass users pay $9.11 per car or $3.89 per motorcycle. All E-ZPass users with transponders not issued by the New York E-ZPass CSC will be required to pay Toll-by-mail rates.{{cite web|url=https://new.mta.info/fares-and-tolls/bridges-and-tunnels/tolls-by-vehicle/cars|title=Car Toll Rates|at=Footnote 3|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|access-date=July 28, 2023|archive-date=August 29, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190829194309/https://new.mta.info/fares-and-tolls/bridges-and-tunnels/tolls-by-vehicle/cars|url-status=live}}

The toll plaza of the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge, located on the Bronx side, originally contained 10 toll lanes but was later expanded.{{cite news|url=http://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=http%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252018%2FNew%2520York%2520NY%2520Sun%2FNew%2520York%2520NY%2520Sun%25201939%2FNew%2520York%2520NY%2520Sun%25201939%2520-%25203915.pdf|title=HUGE BRONX SPAN OPENS TO PUBLIC|date=April 29, 1939|work=The New York Sun|access-date=November 1, 2018|page=20|via=Fultonhistory.com}} Four self-service toll-collection machines were installed at the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge during the 1950s, but they were removed in 1959 because motorists repeatedly dropped their coins at the machines.{{Cite news |date=1959-06-10 |title=Drivers Can't Aim Toll, Bridge Discards Basket |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1959/06/10/archives/drivers-cant-aim-toll-bridge-discards-basket.html |access-date=2022-12-22 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=December 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221222205803/https://www.nytimes.com/1959/06/10/archives/drivers-cant-aim-toll-bridge-discards-basket.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Molleson |first=John |date=14 Jun 1959 |title=On Art of Tossing Toll Into a Gadget: Most Motorists Have Fine Technique: Uippers, High Tossers, Reachers-- Missers |page=A1 |work=New York Herald Tribune |issn=1941-0646 |id={{ProQuest|1322575031}}}} E-ZPass was introduced at the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge in June 1996.{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1996/06/24/nyregion/ez-pass-meets-its-match-summer.html|title=EZ-Pass Meets Its Match: Summer|last=Barry|first=Dan|date=June 24, 1996|work=The New York Times|language=en-US|issn=0362-4331|access-date=October 1, 2018|archive-date=May 26, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150526171413/http://www.nytimes.com/1996/06/24/nyregion/ez-pass-meets-its-match-summer.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last=Adcock |first=Sylvia |date=21 Jun 1996 |title=Next Up for the E-ZPass / Electronic tolls starts Sunday on Whitestone Bridge |page=A27 |work=Newsday |id={{ProQuest|278976278}}}} Initially, the bridge's toll plaza contained three E-ZPass/cash lanes in each direction to reduce confusion; this contrasted with the Throgs Neck Bridge, where confusion between the E-ZPass-only lanes and cash-only lanes had caused congestion.

Open-road cashless tolling began on September 30, 2017.{{cite web | last=Castillo | first=Alfonso A. | title=Cashless tolling arrives at all MTA bridges | website=Newsday | date=October 2, 2017 | url=https://www.newsday.com/long-island/transportation/open-road-tolling-closes-gate-on-era-at-nyc-area-crossings-1.14311902 | access-date=February 16, 2018 | archive-date=February 17, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180217084232/https://www.newsday.com/long-island/transportation/open-road-tolling-closes-gate-on-era-at-nyc-area-crossings-1.14311902 | url-status=live }} The tollbooths, which were at the Bronx end of the bridge, were dismantled, and drivers are no longer able to pay cash at the bridge. Instead, cameras and E-ZPass readers are mounted on new overhead gantries manufactured by TransCore{{Cite web |url=https://transcore.com/projects/mta-bt |title=Project Profile Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), New York |access-date=2022-07-11 |website=TransCore |archive-date=July 12, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220712032949/https://transcore.com/projects/mta-bt |url-status=live }} near where the booths were located. A vehicle without E-ZPass has a picture taken of its license plate and a bill for the toll is mailed to its owner.{{cite web | title=What Is Cashless Tolling? | website=MTA Bridges & Tunnels | url=http://web.mta.info/bandt/cashless/ | access-date=September 1, 2019 | archive-date=September 1, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190901193345/http://web.mta.info/bandt/cashless/ | url-status=live }} For E-ZPass users, sensors detect their transponders wirelessly.{{cite web | last=Siff | first=Andrew | title=Automatic Tolls to Replace Gates at 9 NYC Spans: Cuomo | website=NBC New York | date=October 5, 2016 | url=http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Automatic-Tolls-Coming-to-New-York-City-Bridges-Tunnels-NYC-396050241.html | access-date=December 25, 2016 | archive-date=December 25, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225145426/http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Automatic-Tolls-Coming-to-New-York-City-Bridges-Tunnels-NYC-396050241.html | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=MTA rolls out cashless toll schedule for bridges, tunnels | website=ABC7 New York | date=December 21, 2016 | url=http://abc7ny.com/1666924/ | access-date=December 25, 2016 | archive-date=December 25, 2016 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161225214031/http://abc7ny.com/1666924/ | url-status=live }}

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The bridge carries two MTA Regional Bus Operations routes, the {{NYC bus link|Q44 SBS}} operated by MTA New York City Transit, and the {{NYC bus link|Q50}} Limited (formerly part of the QBx1), operated by the MTA Bus Company.{{cite NYC bus map|Q}}

After the removal of the sidewalks starting in 1943, bicyclists were able to use QBx1 buses of the Queens Surface Corporation, which could carry bicycles on the front-mounted bike racks. However, since the Metropolitan Transportation Authority absorbed the bus routes formerly operated by Queens Surface, the bike racks were eliminated.{{cite web |url=http://www.transalt.org/bridges/whitston.html |title=Bronx–Whitestone Bridge (I-678) |work=Transportation Alternatives |at=Section 4-04(e)(2) |format=PDF |access-date=April 4, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080719234526/http://www.transalt.org/bridges/whitston.html |archive-date=July 19, 2008 }} In April 1994, bike racks were installed onto QBx1 buses,{{cite web|url=http://nacto.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/New-York-City-Bicycle-Master-Plan-1997.pdf|title=New York City Bicycle Master Plan|date=May 1997|website=nyc.gov|publisher=New York City Department of Transportation, New York City Department of City Planning|access-date=January 11, 2016|archive-date=March 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305002029/http://nacto.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/New-York-City-Bicycle-Master-Plan-1997.pdf|url-status=live}} but the bike-on-bus program was eliminated on February 27, 2005, the same day as the MTA's takeover of the QBx1 route.{{cite web|url=http://www.nyc.gov/html/dcp/pdf/transportation/bike_survey.pdf|title=The New York City Bicycle Survey: A Report Based on the Online Public Opinion Questionnaire Conducted for Bike Month 2006|date=May 2007|website=nyc.gov|publisher=New York City Department of City Planning|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304102831/http://www.nyc.gov/html/dcp/pdf/transportation/bike_survey.pdf|archive-date=March 4, 2016|url-status=dead}} After the QBx1 was replaced by the Q50, the MTA reintroduced bike racks on Q50 buses in early 2018.{{Cite web|url=http://www.mta.info/press-release/nyc-transit/mta-running-bus-routes-new-bike-racks-summer|title=MTA Running Bus Routes with New Bike Racks This Summer|website=www.mta.info|publisher=Metropolitan Transportation Authority|language=en|access-date=July 7, 2018|archive-date=July 7, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180707201401/http://www.mta.info/press-release/nyc-transit/mta-running-bus-routes-new-bike-racks-summer|url-status=live}}

• {{Portal-inline|Transport}}
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• Lists of crossings of the East River
• List of bridges documented by the Historic American Engineering Record in New York

{{Notelist}}

{{Reflist}}

{{Commons category|Bronx-Whitestone Bridge}}

• {{official website|http://web.mta.info/bandt/html/bronxw.html}}
• {{HAER |survey=NY-308 |id=ny1810 |title=Bronx–Whitestone Bridge, Spanning East River between Whitestone, Queens & the Bronx, Bronx County, NY |photos=11 |cap=1}}
• [http://www.nycroads.com/crossings/bronx-whitestone/ NYCRoads.com Bronx–Whitestone Bridge]
• {{Structurae|id=20000010|title=Bronx–Whitestone Bridge}}

{{NYC Bridge}}

{{Crossings navbox

|structure = Crossings

|place = East River

|bridge = Bronx–Whitestone Bridge

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|upstream = Throgs Neck Bridge

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|downstream = Rikers Island Bridge

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{{DEFAULTSORT:Bronx-Whitestone Bridge}}

Category:Bridges on the Interstate Highway System

Category:Suspension bridges in New York City

Category:Toll bridges in New York City

Category:Bridges completed in 1939

Category:Robert Moses projects

Category:Bridges over the East River

Category:Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority

Category:Tolled sections of Interstate Highways

Category:Interstate 78

Category:Bridges in the Bronx

Category:Historic American Engineering Record in New York City

Category:Road bridges in New York City

Category:Bridges by Othmar Ammann

Category:Whitestone, Queens

Category:Bridges in Queens, New York

Category:1939 establishments in New York City

Category:Steel bridges in the United States

Category:Throggs Neck, Bronx