<P> Starting on July 4, 2000, and for subsequent special occasions, each tower is illuminated by 380 light fixtures that highlight the exposed steel structure . On each tower there are a mix of 150 and 1000 watt metal halide lamp fixtures . The architectural lighting design was completed by Domingo Gonzalez Associates . </P> <P> As the enclosed lower level is more vulnerable to hazardous material (HAZMAT) incidents than the upper level, most HAZMATs have long been prohibited there . Following the September 11 attacks, the Port Authority also prohibited people from taking photographs on the premises of the bridge out of fear that terrorist groups might study photographs to plot an attack on the bridge, but the photography ban has since been lifted . </P> <P> Since 2006, the bridge has flown the world's largest free - flying American flag, measuring at 90 feet (27 m) long, 60 feet (18 m) wide, and 450 pounds (200 kg). It is hoisted on special occasions when weather allows, and appears on Martin Luther King, Jr . Day, Presidents Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, and Veterans Day, as well as on dates honoring those lost in the September 11 attacks . On events where the flag is flown, the tower lights are lit from dusk until 11: 59 p.m in the evening . </P> <P> In December 2011, the Port Authority announced plans to repair the bridge . For the first time, the vertical suspender cables would be replaced, at an expected cost of more than $1 billion paid for by toll revenue . On August 5, 2013, repair crews began an $82 - million effort to fix cracks in upper - deck structural steel caused by traffic, particularly heavy trucks . The plan called for replacing 632 road deck panels, which would add at least 20 years of service life to the roadway . The work proceeded at night, and was slated to be complete by year's end . But delays prevented completion and ultimately the work was halted for the winter . It was restarted on June 16, 2014, and was expected to last another 12 weeks . </P>

How big is the flag on the george washington bridge