It existed from 1888[2][3][4] until 1959, when it was replaced by the current Arthur Kill Vertical Lift Bridge, built nearby.

A charter was granted to the Staten Island Bridge Company, but the project was eventually abandoned due to fiscal constraints.

Opposed to the proposed location were Senator Chase, representing the Pennsylvania Railroad, and I. L. Fisher of the Bee Towing Company.

The opponents preferred building a 70-foot high (21.34 m) bridge near Buckwheat Island, about one mile (1.6 km) south of the proposed location.

[6] The approved bridge was designed by Charles Ackenheit (or Ackenheil[7]), the chief engineer for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad.

This would necessitate frequent openings, especially in later years after the kill was dredged and numerous ocean-going ships needed to pass through the strait.

[5] Also, in October 1957, a train carrying Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip from Washington to the Staten Island Ferry during a state visit crossed the bridge.