Springfield City Council got an update this week on the condition of the Jefferson Avenue Footbridge and what needs to be done to save it.
According to the city, Spencer Jones, an engineer with Great River Engineering who conducted a structural evaluation of the 114-year-old footbridge, says if it were human, he would describe its condition as critical.
Some findings: • One of every three primary members (36.4%) do not have adequate capacity and need repaired or strengthened.
• Six of the 10 vertical columns in the south approach need to be strengthened.
• The stairs on both north and south approaches need to be replaced. ADA accessibility also needs to be incorporated.
The bridge was closed March 1 after Public Works inspectors found corrosion and steel loss in the north support column. They decided that, while the bridge wasn’t in imminent danger, it would be best to close it to the public.
Jones presented council with multiple options to consider. The public is invited to an open house November 17 from 4 to 6 at White River Brewing Company on Commercial St. to ask questions and provide input.
