The Missouri River Bridge Pedestrian Walkway opened to the public on Friday.
It hangs on the downriver side of the northbound bridge.
“This new pedestrian attachment adds statewide appeal to the Katy Trail and it certainly encourages people to explore the communities on both sides of the river,” said Roger Schwartze, MoDot District Engineer.
The bridge cost MoDot $5.6 million in federal funds and an additional million in local and private funds. The project intends on separating travelers on two wheels from those on four.
“Anytime you’re mixing traffic of 15-20 miles per hour with 60 or better, you’re asking for trouble,” Cyclist Gregory Smith said.
The attachment is eight-feet wide and provides easy passage from one side of the river to the other. There are two unfenced observation decks for a dramatic view of the Capitol and riverfront. A gradually-sloping ramp sends cyclists and walkers to the Noren boat launch area on the north shore.
“It’s a neat, neat experience to walk across the river,” said Phil Stiles, of JC Parks and Recreation.
Business people in Jefferson City hope the bridge will deliver new customers from the Katy Trail.
“Years ago, when we biked the Katy Trail, we were embarrassed there was no access to Jefferson City,” said Ben and Amy Luebbering. “We’re delighted to see this day come.”
The project was completed on time and on budget, despite and especially snowy winter.
“I called up Chuck Sullivan and said, ‘We really need to talk about more time.’ And he just laughed,” Contractor Ted Kettlewell said.
The bridge places attention on the lack of access to the riverfront in Jefferson City. City officials hope it will light a fire under projects like Adrian’s Island and provide the kind of social activity common on the river in places like Hermann and Washington.
“Those communities have learned how to touch the rivers that flow through them,” JC Mayor John Landwehr said. “And they are better communities for it.”
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