In 1943, the bridge was completed. It was painted gray to help camouflage the bridge in case of enemy attack. Because the bridge was financed with bonds, it was initially operated as a toll bridge. Proceeds were used to help pay off the bonds.In the post war years, traffic was so heavy that the bonds were paid off 11 years early, and the bridge became toll-free in 1954.n 1943, the bridge was completed. It was painted gray to help camouflage the bridge in case of enemy attack. Because the bridge was financed with bonds, it was initially operated as a toll bridge. Proceeds were used to help pay off the bonds.