The Benjamin Franklin Bridge, originally known as the Delaware River Bridge, marks its centennial this month, celebrating a century of transforming travel and commerce between Philadelphia and Camden. Opened 100 years ago, the bridge quickly became a vital link, significantly impacting regional connectivity and development.
The iconic structure's elegant design benefited from the expertise of faculty at the University of Pennsylvania's Weitzman School of Design. Paul Philippe Cret, then chair of architecture, "provided the elegant design," according to William Whitaker of Weitzman’s Architectural Archives.
This milestone highlights the enduring legacy of the collaboration between engineering and architectural vision that brought this monumental project to fruition, continuing to serve as a crucial artery for the region's transportation network.