We've all seen the locks– and headphones and hair ties and other knick-knacks– on the Brooklyn Bridge's pedestrian promenade.
We can all agree that the public displays of affection are cringeworthy (We get it, YOU'RE HAPPY, CONGRATS), but apparently, besides reminding us how alone we are, they're also doing actual physical damage to the bridge.
The Department of Transportation has announced that the locks and other items are prohibited, enforcing the new rule with signs around the promenade threatening $100 for any rogue lovers who don't obey.
This crackdown might seem kind of intense, but last September, as reported by Curbed NY, a street light wire on the bridge snapped because of the hundreds of locks attached.
"The brilliant architect John Roebling designed the Brooklyn Bridge to be a safe structure that would endure for centuries, but these ‘love locks’ pose a danger to pedestrians and motorists by adding stress to the bridge’s structure," said Thomas M. Chan, NYPD’s Transportation Bureau Chief.
The signs displaying the new rules are pretty light-hearted as well, one of them reads, "No Locks, Yes Lox," but it doesn't make the $100 fine for padlocking the bridge any less steep.
The DOT seems aware that this tradition is one many New Yorkers hold dear and don't want the bridge to be devoid of public affection (whatever, DOT). Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams encourages couples to lock hands or lips instead of items that will prevent the preservation of the bridge.
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The city is also coordinating with editors of NYC guidebooks to warn traveling couples about leaving tokens of their love behind.
"We encourage romantics to continue to express their love but avoid the heartache of a summons," Chan also advises.
[via Curbed NY] [Feature Image Courtesy Instagram]