Walking across Goethals Bridge has become a topic of interest for pedestrians and cyclists seeking a nonmotorized connection between Staten Island, New York and Elizabeth, New Jersey. With the replacement of the original 1928 span and the addition of dedicated pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure on the new bridge, many people wonder if you can now walk across safely. The answer is yes-but with some caveats regarding access points, connectivity, and planning. Below is a detailed look at whether you can walk the Goethals Bridge, how to do it, and what you should know before heading out on foot or bike.
A New Goethals Bridge and Pedestrian/Bike Access
The old Goethals Bridge (1928-2017) was a steeltruss cantilever bridge that connected Staten Island and Elizabeth, NJ. It carried motor vehicle traffic but was not ideal for pedestrians or cyclists in its later years.
In response to modern transportation needs and rising interest in nonmotorized commuting and recreation, the original bridge was replaced by a new twinspan cablestayed bridge beginning in 2017. A key feature of the replacement design is a 10foot wide shareduse path dedicated to pedestrians and bicyclists, located on the northern (New Jerseybound) side of the bridge.
When Did Walk/Bike Access Become Available?
The pedestrian and bicycle walkway on the new Goethals Bridge opened to the public on March 4, 2020. From that point onward, people have been able to walk or bike across the Arthur Kill via this modern route – a first in decades, and a major change from the original bridge’s limitations.
How to Walk or Bike Across the Goethals Bridge
If you want to cross the Goethals Bridge on foot or by bike, there are several practical considerations to ensure a safe and smooth journey.
Access and Entry Points
- On the New Jersey side, there is an access point near the Goethals Service Area / NJ landing area.
- On the Staten Island side, access requires navigating connecting streets, and local authorities have been working on connecting the walkway to existing sidewalks and community streets.
- Because of heavy truck traffic near freight terminals around the bridge, the local transportation agencies designed indirect entry routes for cyclists and pedestrians to reduce risk, which may require detours on foot or bike before reaching the official walkway entrance.
Specifications and Rules
The shareduse path is about 10 feet wide, enough for pedestrians and bicyclists, and is separated from the motor vehicle lanes for safety. Access is typically allowed from early morning until late at night (on opening it was reported as 600 a.m.-1159 p.m.), though closures may occur for maintenance or bad weather. It is advisable to check local notices before planning a crossing.
Benefits of Walking the Goethals Bridge
Crossing the Goethals Bridge on foot or by bike offers several advantages beyond mere transportation. The shareduse path gives humans – not just cars – a direct link between Staten Island and New Jersey, opening up new commuting, recreation, and sightseeing opportunities.
- Scenic views of the Arthur Kill waterway, nearby freight rail bridges, waterfronts and industrial port landscapes.
- Opportunity for healthy, lowcost commuting or recreation by foot or bicycle rather than relying on cars or public transit.
- Access to regional bicycle and walking networks. Municipal planners in Elizabeth have expressed interest in connecting the bridge walkway to local riverside trails and waterfront greenways.
Challenges and Considerations for Pedestrians and Cyclists
While walking or biking the Goethals Bridge is now possible, there are still some practical constraints and issues to keep in mind.
Connectivity Issues
Although the bridge itself has a dedicated path, the routes leading to and from the walkway – especially on the Staten Island side – can be awkward or indirect. Road infrastructure around freight terminals and trucking routes can make the final approach difficult for pedestrians or cyclists.
Noise and Traffic Environment
Because the bridge is adjacent to busy shipping, port activities, and freight routes, pedestrians and cyclists may experience noise, truck traffic, and less-thanscenic surroundings. Some users have described the environment as industrial and not well suited for leisurely strolls. Earlymorning or weekend crossings may offer a quieter experience, when vehicle volume is lower and the bridge tends to feel more relaxed.
Limited Amenities
As of now, there are few – if any – dedicated amenities such as restrooms, water fountains or parking lots directly adjacent to the pedestrian access points. According to recent user reports, parking near the Staten Island entrance can be difficult, and access from public transit or local roads involves additional walking. This makes planning important if you intend to walk or bike across and back.
Is Walking the Goethals Bridge Worth It?
For many people – especially cyclists, adventurous walkers, or those looking for a unique link between Staten Island and New Jersey – walking or biking across the Goethals Bridge is a viable and interesting option. Especially since the dedicated walkway opened in 2020, the crossing provides a rare interstate pedestrian route that didn’t exist before.
That said, success and satisfaction depend on thoughtful planning you should check access routes, plan how to reach the walkway entrances, and anticipate the industrial nature of the surroundings. For regular commuters or recreationoriented travelers, the bridge can serve as a useful or enjoyable route. For casual walkers expecting scenic footpaths or parklike bridge crossings, it may feel more utilitarian.
Tips for Walking or Biking the Goethals Bridge
- Check weather and maintenance notices before going – pedestrian/bike path may close for maintenance or unsafe conditions.
- Choose earlymorning or weekend hours for a calmer experience with less traffic noise and fewer trucks.
- Access from Staten Island requires planning use local streets and sidewalks to reach the northern entrance.
- If biking, follow regulations only humanpowered bikes (no motorized vehicles), stay on the shareduse path, and be mindful of other pedestrians.
- Prepare for minimal amenities bring water, plan your transport to and from the bridge entrances, and be ready for a walk or ride under open, industrial surroundings.
You can indeed walk or bike across the Goethals Bridge thanks to the shared pedestrian and bicycle path added during the replacement of the old span. The path officially opened in 2020, giving Staten Island and New Jersey residents a rare interstate walking link. While the crossing offers practical and recreational value, it comes with tradeoffs tricky access routes, industrial surroundings, and limited amenities. With proper planning and realistic expectations, walking the Goethals Bridge can be a unique, useful – and even rewarding – experience. Whether for commuting, exercise, or exploration, the bridge now serves not just cars, but people on foot and on bikes too.