New-York tribune. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1866-1924, 1898-11-19
BRIDGING THE NORTH RIVER.

Is 1t likely that this generation Will see
bridge between Manhattan Island and the shore
of New-Jersey: 1t may not be fully under
stood by every one that such structure would
require not only tremendous outlay for the
masonry, the metal. the labor and everything
pertaining TO the bridge ITSELF but would also
compel huge expenditure for land in this
city which could not be purchased except at
extremely high prices. Every scheme which
has been suggested has In mind extensive APP
proaches on this island, and those approaches
must be acquired in territory which cannot be
bought cheaply. For many years the people OF
Ncw-YOrk and Ncw-Jerscy have read numer-
Gus articles and heard great deal Of talk
about magnificent arches extending from suit
able locations on Manhattan Island to high
ground back of the Ncw-Jersey waterfront.
Engineers have been busy with figures. estl-
mates and details. But what are the probabili-
tics that capitalists will come to the front with
the tens of millions of dollars which must be
extended in order to span the broad stretch
OF water between the two States and to COM
petc the approaches? OF course, a tunnel Is
4 totally different affair from bridge; yet the
melancholy collapse of the tunnel under the
Hudson has not tended to encourage the
wealthy men OF the world to promise vast sums
for a bridge.
Engineering genius has proved itself again
and again equal to stupendous problems. and
II cannot be doubted that II is within the
power Of great engineers to set up superb
structure over the North River hut the money
problem will remain for many a year prob
lem of grave difficulty. The projectors Of the
plan which is chiefly spoken OF in these days
are hopeful and even confident in their utter
ances Nevertheless. It would be wild and
foolish undertaking to enter upon the actual
work and TO lay cut large sums in construc-
top until It is certain that sufficient capital
will be supplied 10 bring the task TO fulflment.
No bridge should be begun until 1t is sure that
It will be finished within as short time rs the
highest engineering skill and the employment
of an army of men can accomplish the mighty
undertaking. A bridge which might drag along
for twenty or thirty years would be an injury
and nuisance both to this city and 10 the
people OF New-Iersey. Nothing should be done
until the end Is plainly in sight and until the
money needed for this colossal scheme Is
pledged beyond withdrawal
This country Is now hourishlng. and careful
observers believe that an era OF Unprecedented
prosperity Is within reasonable view No
doubt within the next few years many enter
prscs Of great pith and moment will be set
forth In glowing terms and persuasive appeals
will be made in behalf Of such enterprises TO
the principal capitalists both in America and
in Europe New-Yorkers. however, need more
avenues Of travel and interchange between
Long Island and Manhattan Island TO greater
degree than they need now or will need for dec
AIDES bridge over the North River. The ferry
lines across the Hudson rule provide fine
vessels which make the trips swiftly. 1t is only