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Released: 3/19/2026
Ben Franklin Bridge Turns 100: DRPA Announces Anniversary Celebration
A century of connection, innovation, and service will be marked with a community celebration on July 11
The Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) is proud to announce the 100th anniversary of the Ben Franklin Bridge, an iconic span connecting Philadelphia and Camden since opening on July 1, 1926.
When it was completed in 1926, the bridge, originally named the Delaware River Bridge, was the world’s longest suspension bridge. Jubilant crowds gathered on that hot summer day to witness its opening, marking a historic moment that united two neighboring cities.
Pennsylvania Governor Gifford Pinchot described the bridge as “a magnificent monument, not only of modern engineering, but of achieved harmony of our common interests.” Newspapers at the time called it “beautiful as a gossamer web and seemingly as frail,” noting that it showed no sign of strain as tens of thousands of people crossed it on opening day.
For a century, the Ben Franklin Bridge has served as a vital transportation link for the region. Today, more than 34 million vehicles travel across the span annually, in addition to 5.6 million PATCO riders and thousands of pedestrians and cyclists utilizing the bridge’s walkways.
To commemorate this historic milestone, DRPA will host a community celebration on Saturday, July 11, 2026, bringing together residents, partners, and stakeholders to honor the bridge’s legacy and its continued impact on the region.
The Ben Franklin Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic during the event to allow for safe pedestrian access and activities.
The July 11 celebration will feature:
- Family-friendly activities
- Food trucks and vendors
- Opportunities to walk the bridge roadway
- Historical displays highlighting the bridge’s construction and evolution
Additional details regarding event programming, timing, and participation will be announced in the coming months.
“The Ben Franklin Bridge is more than just a crossing; it is a symbol of connection between our communities,” said John T. Hanson, DRPA CEO. “For 100 years, it has supported the movement of people and goods across the Delaware River, and we look forward to celebrating this milestone with the public.”
Since 1926, the bridge has undergone continuous investment and modernization to ensure it remains safe, reliable, and able to meet the region’s evolving transportation needs.
DRPA encourages the public to join in recognizing this once-in-a-century milestone and to take part in the July 11 celebration.
To visit the offical event page, click here.
Interested in being a vendor at the event? Click here.
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