The Verrazano-Narrows Bridge connects the boroughs of Staten Island and Brooklyn in New York City. From the time of its completion until 1981, it was the largest suspension bridge in the world, with a span of 4,260 feet (1,298 m). Designed by engineer Othmar Ammann, a noted authority on bridges, it furnished a critical link in the regional highway system and is widely known today as the starting point for the New York City Marathon. Who was Giovanni da Verrazano, the bridge's namesake? Discuss (http://forum.thefreedictionary.com/postst69897_Verrazano-Narrows-Bridge-Opens--1964-.aspx)