For some bridges special rules are written to control congestion.

If your brother in law believes that no one will use a walking path on a bridge, read this quote from the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey which operates the George Washington Bridge in New York City:

"Normally, pedestrians are permitted to use both sidewalks, and bicyclists are permitted to ride their bikes on the south sidewalk. Due to a major repainting of the underside of the upper level, the north sidewalk will be closed until 2001. Bicyclists and pedestrians share the south sidewalk. All sidewalk users are encouraged to exercise extra caution when crossing the south sidewalk. A ramp is available at the entrance and exit to the south sidewalk. General sidewalk guidelines are posted at entrances to the walkways. The sidewalk is open 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week, unless otherwise noted at the sidewalk entrances."

Click: George Washington Bridge, New York City,
a pre-cautionary announcement

From the The Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District:

"On weekdays, cyclists must share the east sidewalk with pedestrians from 5 am to 3:30 p.m. The sidewalks can get very crowded, so please exercise caution at all times. Cyclists MUST yield to pedestrians at all times. Most pedestrians on the Bridge are focused on the view and are not always paying attention to the activity around them. Many of these people are tourists who are unfamiliar with the Rules of the Road, so this means that you must watch out for them.

"Remember to walk your bicycle around the towers on the Bridge, as there is a very limited amount of space to maneuver and you won't be able to see anyone coming from the other direction or standing in the middle of the sidewalk. Please walk your bike around the towers!

"There is no toll for cyclists.

"During the summer and fall of 2000, a Public Safety Railing will be added between the roadway and the sidewalks. Cyclists should watch for construction detours."

Click: Golden Gate Bridge traffic rules

Index of High Exposure Walk-Bike Bridges