Why Was The Ben Franklin Bridge Purple?

Did you drive by the iconic Ben Franklin Bridge on March 29, 2025, and wonder why it was lighted purple that evening? Located between New Jersey and Philadelphia, PA the bridge spans the world-famous Delaware River.

So, why was the Ben Franklin purple? Well. March is recognized as Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Awareness Month and a dedicated member of the MSA community shared their idea for awareness. Contacting the Delaware River Bridge Authority MSA NJ was able secure the lighting event for the evening of March 29. The beautifully purple Ben Franklin thus became a beckon of hope and recognition for those affected by MSA. The official color for MSA awareness is purple

MSA NJ was founded by the Roemer family in memory of their mother Dolores, who passed away from MSA in 2009. MSA NJ provides compassionate support for patients and their care partners and organizes awareness activities. Currently, MSA NJ's most important events are monthly support meetings for those in the New Jersey tri-state area and beyond.

Breathtaking views of the Ben Franklin Bridge lit up purple for Multiple System Atrophy Awareness Month. are featured below and in our event photo gallery.

Fun Facts About the Ben Franklin Bridge:

Stretching majestically across the Delaware River, the Ben Franklin Bridge is more than just a way to get from Philadelphia to Camden—it’s a full-on piece of history, engineering, and urban lore. Officially opened in 1926, this iconic suspension bridge has some fascinating facts tucked away in its steel bones.

1. It was once the longest suspension bridge in the world. When the Ben Franklin Bridge first opened (originally called the Delaware River Bridge), it was the longest single-span suspension bridge in the world. Its main span measures 1,750 feet, which was quite the feat back in the 1920s. It held this record until the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit surpassed it in 1929.

2. Designed by a legend. The bridge was designed by Paul Philippe Cret, a prominent French-born architect, and Ralph Modjeski, a Polish-American engineer who also worked on the San Francisco–Oakland Bay Bridge. Modjeski is considered one of the top bridge builders in U.S. history.

3. It was built for America’s 150th birthday. Construction began in 1922 and the bridge opened in July 1926, just in time for the Sesquicentennial Exposition, which celebrated the 150th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Very on-brand for Philly, right?

4. It’s not just for cars. The Ben Franklin Bridge carries more than just vehicular traffic. It also has pedestrian and bicycle walkways, and even PATCO trains that run on tracks between the bridge’s decks. If you’re up for it, walking the bridge offers amazing views of the Philly skyline, Camden’s waterfront, and epic sunsets.

5. The bridge lights up the night. In 1987, the bridge got a glow-up with a system of LED lights that change colors and enhance its elegant cables and towers. It’s not just practical—it’s a full-on vibe, especially during holidays or special events when the lights go red, white, and blue, or purple for MSA Awareness Month.

6. It’s a fitness destination. Believe it or not, the bridge has a bit of a fitness fan club. The pedestrian walkway is a popular route for runners and cyclists, especially during the warmer months. There’s even a race called the Ben Franklin Bridge Run, which takes runners from Camden into Philly and back.

7. It inspired artwork and pop culture. The bridge has appeared in a bunch of movies, TV shows, and even album covers. You can spot it in films like National Treasure and Rocky Balboa. Artists and photographers love capturing it because of its bold lines and symmetrical structure.

8. It's maintained by DRPA. The Delaware River Port Authority manages the bridge. They’ve kept it in great shape through regular maintenance and modernization efforts, making sure it stays strong for future generations.

So next time you're cruising across or walking the Ben Franklin Bridge, remember it’s not just a bridge—it’s a monument to history, design, and good ol’ Philly pride, not to mention an ally in the Multiple System Atrophy Awareness cause!