[6][7] The bridge was a part of a program to develop Jamaica Bay as a recreational area instead of an industrial port.

[6][7][10] It consisted of a widened version of the previous drawbridge, and a grade-separated interchange complex feeding into Beach Channel Drive and the Cross Bay Parkway.

[7] Following its completion, Harry Taylor, head of the New York City Parkway Authority, said it had "transformed the old-time beach resort of blighted shacks, cheap amusements and limited play space into a modern playground of the type and character of Jones Beach.

[12] The bridge was built 55 feet (17 m) high in order to allow boats pass under without the delays caused by the previous drawbridge.

E-ZPass users with transponders issued by the New York E‑ZPass Customer Service Center pay $2.60 per car or $2.17 per motorcycle.

The new toll for area residents was part of a series of Metropolitan Transportation Authority budget cuts.