Isiah Christie Whether you’re a Bergen County resident or a frequent commuter through North Jersey + New York City, you likely know the George Washington Bridge for its old-school architecture, traffic spells, and being one of the most iconic things in Fort Lee. But what you may not know is that since its completion in 1931, nearly a century ago, the bridge has never been illuminated on a nightly basis. However, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey have announced that for America’s 250th anniversary, that will change as the G.W. Bridge will be illuminated every night permanently. Read on to learn more about the George Washington Bridge’s new nightly lighting.
The Details
The George Washington Bridge, despite almost being 100 years old, has never been illuminated on a nightly basis. It has lit up for special occasions since 2000, when almost 800 lightbulbs were installed in the bridge’s towers, but with the integration of energy-efficient lights in 2025, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey have opted to make its lightings a regular occurrence. To commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, the bridge’s towers will light up every night until 10PM.
“Lighting its towers highlights its importance to our region,” Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole said in a press release. “With the upgraded tower lights on the George Washington Bridge, this icon of the region is a literal shining beacon of the role we played in the birth and success of our country.”
The only time the tower lights will remain off at all hours is during peak migratory bird seasons, which are from mid-March through mid-April and from late August through mid-November, according to Port Authority.
This lighting upgrade is also part of a larger program, Restoring the George, which has been conducted by Port Authority with the goal of rehabilitating the bridge to ensure its safety and improve accessibility. Some of the program’s projects include upgrading, replacing or repairing several major components of the bridge, including its suspender ropes, pedestrian paths, and main cables.
To learn more about the bridge lighting and the Port Authority’s future restoration plans for the George Washington Bridge, visit here.
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