Narrow but Vastly Significant: Life Crossing Dingmans Ferry Bridge
Tucked away between Pennsylvania and New Jersey lies a little-known yet iconic landmark - the historic Dingmans Ferry Bridge. Connecting Pike and Sussex Counties in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, this 40-mile stretch of forested land along the Delaware River is dotted with scenic beauty. But what makes this bridge truly special is not just its picturesque surroundings but also its pivotal role in the community.
For over a century, commuters and tourists have been relying on this bridge to traverse the river, making it one of the last privately owned toll bridges in the country. Its owners - a group of about 65 individuals from across the nation who form Dingmans Choice and Delaware Bridge Company - take great pride in maintaining not only the infrastructure but also fostering a sense of community.
Every day, a friendly neighborhood toll taker named Chris Siggia greets visitors with a warm smile, striking up conversations that often range from small talk about pets to admiring each other's nails. For Siggia and others like him who have spent years behind the wheel, it's not just about collecting tolls but also sharing stories and advice.
One such story is shared by Carol Phillips, Secretary Treasurer of the company. She recounts how the bridge serves as a meeting point for owners from across the country who come together once a year to celebrate their shared passion. For these individuals, the bridge is more than a mere structure; it's a piece of family history and legacy.
As you cross this historic landmark, take note that while it may seem old-fashioned - cash-only transactions are still in use - its wooden deck has seen better days, requiring annual maintenance to ensure the longevity of the bridge. Yet, despite some modern touches like reinforced pillars and guide rails, the bridge retains much of its original charm.
Beyond its historical significance, Dingmans Ferry Bridge is also a symbol of camaraderie among locals. Many commuters have developed close relationships with the toll takers over time, who offer more than just fare collection but also driving directions, tourist information, and even words of encouragement.
The bridge itself has celebrated 125 years of vital river crossings in recent years. As it continues to serve the communities that rely on it for daily transportation, its owners hope that for another century or so, it will remain a cherished hub that brings people together.
Tucked away between Pennsylvania and New Jersey lies a little-known yet iconic landmark - the historic Dingmans Ferry Bridge. Connecting Pike and Sussex Counties in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, this 40-mile stretch of forested land along the Delaware River is dotted with scenic beauty. But what makes this bridge truly special is not just its picturesque surroundings but also its pivotal role in the community.
For over a century, commuters and tourists have been relying on this bridge to traverse the river, making it one of the last privately owned toll bridges in the country. Its owners - a group of about 65 individuals from across the nation who form Dingmans Choice and Delaware Bridge Company - take great pride in maintaining not only the infrastructure but also fostering a sense of community.
Every day, a friendly neighborhood toll taker named Chris Siggia greets visitors with a warm smile, striking up conversations that often range from small talk about pets to admiring each other's nails. For Siggia and others like him who have spent years behind the wheel, it's not just about collecting tolls but also sharing stories and advice.
One such story is shared by Carol Phillips, Secretary Treasurer of the company. She recounts how the bridge serves as a meeting point for owners from across the country who come together once a year to celebrate their shared passion. For these individuals, the bridge is more than a mere structure; it's a piece of family history and legacy.
As you cross this historic landmark, take note that while it may seem old-fashioned - cash-only transactions are still in use - its wooden deck has seen better days, requiring annual maintenance to ensure the longevity of the bridge. Yet, despite some modern touches like reinforced pillars and guide rails, the bridge retains much of its original charm.
Beyond its historical significance, Dingmans Ferry Bridge is also a symbol of camaraderie among locals. Many commuters have developed close relationships with the toll takers over time, who offer more than just fare collection but also driving directions, tourist information, and even words of encouragement.
The bridge itself has celebrated 125 years of vital river crossings in recent years. As it continues to serve the communities that rely on it for daily transportation, its owners hope that for another century or so, it will remain a cherished hub that brings people together.
. anyway, i guess its kinda cute how the toll takers are all friends with each other and stuff. but hey, its nice to see someone keeping things old school for a change. 40 miles of forested land is pretty sweet tho 
those toll takers are the real MVPs giving out advice and sharing stories while collecting tolls what's not to love about Dingmans Ferry Bridge? it's so cool how it brings people together even after all these years 
i'm low-key sad that cash only transactions are still in use, but hey it adds to its charm 
anyone else been there?
especially since it's a piece of family history for them... it makes me wanna go visit the bridge and experience that community vibe myself 
. Plus, it's awesome to see how the community comes together, sharing stories and advice over a cup of coffee (or gas station treats) 
. It's not just about the bridge, but the people too! 
. Plus, it's sweet to see how the bridge is still family-run and has such strong ties to the community 
. The fact that they have a yearly meetup to celebrate makes me want to attend (if I could just get across the bridge, haha!) 
The fact that they still use cash-only transactions despite being old-fashioned is kinda adorable too, like they're keeping things retro for real 
. Anyway, I'm low-key hoping this bridge stays around for another century or so, it's definitely got some serious charm 
right? It's got all these old-school vibes going on with the cash-only transactions and the wooden deck, but at the same time, you can still feel the community spirit 
I gotta say, I'm loving the nostalgia vibes around Dingmans Ferry Bridge. It's like, you can really feel the community spirit there, ya know? 
That kind of dedication is really admirable, especially considering it's a privately owned toll bridge in today's world.
I think it's awesome that people are recognizing its significance and working to preserve it for future generations. Who knows, maybe one day it'll be a national landmark or something 
chris siggia seems like a total sweetheart behind that toll booth he's more than just collecting cash, he's got stories and advice to share 
they're not just fixing roads, they're preserving memories and making new ones 
They must really care about preserving the community spirit around that bridge.
. I mean who needs smartphones when you can have a conversation with the toll taker about your pets? And yeah, cash only is old school but it's also kinda charming. I wish they'd add more amenities like Wi-Fi or something but honestly, the community vibe is what makes this place special 
like wut's next? they shd just get w/ the times & add card machines lol, but i guess thats part of its charm. i mean, u can't put a price on the stories behind this place 
, like that 1 4rm carol phillips w/ her community meetups 
. I'm glad they're still maintaining its original charm, even if it means some modern touches are needed 
. i mean, can you imagine having a toll taker who becomes your friend