Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich joined officials at the reopening ceremony, celebrating a major improvement connecting New Jersey and New York.
FORT LEE, NJ — October 16, 2026 — The newly renovated South Walk of the George Washington Bridge officially reopened on Thursday, October 15, following a major reconstruction project that provides pedestrians with a safer, more accessible connection between New Jersey and New York.
Fort Lee Mayor Mark Sokolich attended the official opening ceremony in Manhattan, where he delivered remarks marking this important milestone for the communities on both sides of the Hudson River.
With both walkways now open, pedestrians have dedicated access to the South Walk, while cyclists exclusively use the North Walk, which reopened in 2023. The separation is designed to improve safety and make crossing the bridge more comfortable for everyone.
Major Improvements to a Historic Bridge
The renovated South Walk features wider and more accessible ramps, improved lighting, enhanced security features, updated signage, and new viewing areas offering spectacular views of the Hudson River and Manhattan skyline.
The improvements are part of the Port Authority’s $2 billion Restoring the George program, a comprehensive effort to modernize and preserve one of the world’s busiest bridges.
The larger project also included replacing all 592 original steel suspender ropes, an important structural improvement completed in March 2025.
Port Authority Chairman Kevin J. O’Toole emphasized that the improvements strengthen connections between communities, while Executive Director Kathryn Garcia highlighted the engineering work that made the renovation possible.
A Special Connection for Fort Lee
For Fort Lee, the George Washington Bridge is more than a transportation landmark. It represents a direct connection to New York City and remains one of the borough’s most recognizable symbols.
Mayor Mark Sokolich’s participation in the reopening ceremony highlighted Fort Lee’s connection to the historic bridge and the significance of the improvements for local residents.
The reopening also provides new opportunities for walking, recreation, and enjoying panoramic views of the Hudson River.
For the first time in years, pedestrians and cyclists can cross the bridge using separate, dedicated pathways.
The Port Authority has also introduced expanded overnight access, although one walkway may temporarily close during scheduled maintenance, requiring pedestrians and cyclists to share the remaining open path.
Sources: Port Authority | CBS New York | Spectrum News NY1
By NJ RADAR Team