The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is set to unfurl a massive American flag ahead of Independence Day as New York prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States.

“I am especially proud that my team was able to get this over the finish line with our partners in government, ensuring that the flag would be flown in time for the Fourth of July and the 250th anniversary celebrations,” said State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, who represents the North Shore of Staten Island and parts of South Brooklyn.

The project has been in the works for more than a year. In April 2025, Scarcella-Spanton’s office released a statement detailing a push for the flag involving Alesio Bejleri, a Staten Island college student and Chair of Government Relations for the Staten Island Young Democrats, along with several local elected officials.

Bejleri, 22, helped bring early attention to the idea through outreach to borough leaders and calls for renewed commemorative efforts. That same month, Scarcella-Spanton, Council Member David Carr and Assembly Member Michael Tannousis sent a letter to the MTA requesting that the flag be flown ahead of the semiquincentennial.

“It is so meaningful to see this effort that has been years in the making get done. For the thousands of people who will pass over the bridge, the flag will serve as a reminder of our country’s commitment to liberty and justice as we celebrate such a momentous occasion,” Scarcella-Spanton said.