Facts about the first bridge in Bethlehem:

– It cost $7,800 to construct.  This dollar amount is estimated at $180,000 in 2018, but with a estimated actual project cost of 3.4 million.

– The bridge was privately funded by a group of shareholders.

– The bridge was uncovered and charged a toll.

 

 

Sources:Levering, Joseph M. A History of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 1741-1892. Times Publishing: Bethlehem, 1903, 545-46; Williamson, Samuel H. "Seven Ways to Compute the Relative Value of a U.S. Dollar Amount, 1774 to present," MeasuringWorth, 2018.