A deteriorated foot bridge that connects Sheepshead Bay to Manhattan Beach has been fixed.
New York City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez joined local elected officials on Thursday to celebrate the rehabilitation of the Ocean Avenue Pedestrian Bridge, also commonly referred to as the Sheepshead Bay Bridge. The 400-foot iconic wooden bridge, built in 1880, connects Emmons Avenue in Sheepshead Bay to Shore Boulevard in Manhattan Beach.
“Bridging communities is a priority for the Adams Administration and NYC DOT, and the Ocean Avenue Pedestrian Bridge literally does just that,” Rodriguez said in a statement. “This iconic wooden bridge from a century ago was in much need of tender loving care."
The bridge had deteriorated over the years as deck boards, handrails and railing supports were in dire need of replacement. It became a priority for the community and in 2022 then-Assemblymember Steve Cymbrowitz worked to assemble $750,000 for the repairs. The DOT filled in the remainder of funding needs to move forward with the approximately $1.2 million project.
“As a longtime resident of Manhattan Beach, I can personally attest that the repairs to the walkway and handrails were essential and long overdue," said New York State Assemblymember Michael Novakhov.
Repair work included deck replacement and walking board replacement; vertical bumper support replacement; vertical post installation; railing and stringer replacement; repainting of structure; and replacing the decorative lighting.
“This bridge is a landmark in our community and a daily path for so many neighbors connecting Sheepshead Bay and Manhattan Beach," said City Council Member Inna Vernikov. "For years, residents and local businesses have needed and asked for these repairs, and today’s reopening reflects what can be achieved when government works in conjunction with the community."
