George Washington Bridge Reopens Renovated South Walk for Pedestrians

By Y.M. Lowy

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has reopened the renovated South Walk of the George Washington Bridge, giving pedestrians and cyclists separate paths to cross the Hudson River.

With both walkways now open, pedestrians are directed to the South Walk, while cyclists use the North Walk. 

The renovated South Walk features wider paths, ADA-accessible routes, improved lighting and signage, and new viewing areas on both sides of the river. The upgrades replace the bridge’s original narrow sidewalks and steep ramps, making the crossing more accessible.

The project was made possible by the replacement of all 592 steel suspender ropes connecting the bridge’s main cables to the roadway deck. Completed in March 2025, the work was the largest part of the Port Authority’s $2 billion Restoring the George program, which is rehabilitating the bridge as it approaches its 100th anniversary.