The long ~ Springfield, MO - After years of anticipation, the rehabilitation of the historic Jefferson Avenue Footbridge is finally set to begin in May. However, before any construction can take place, the 123-year-old bridge must first be disassembled.

The decision to disassemble the bridge was made by a team consisting of Public Works, Branco Enterprises, and Great River Engineering. Due to the fracture-critical nature of the bridge and the extensive rehabilitation work needed, this was deemed as the safest and most efficient strategy.

Branco Enterprises has already started preparing for construction by conducting spot abatement of paint and removing rivets. They have also begun removing the bridge decking. In late April, they will begin mobilizing equipment and supplies for the project. To ensure safety during this process, large panels will be installed over the railroad tracks to allow for heavy equipment and cranes to be moved in.

The next step in this process will take place in early May when Branco begins dismantling and moving the bridge span across the railroad tracks. The majority of the span will be placed in the BNSF rail yard to the north, with a smaller portion going to the south. At this time, crews will also begin demolishing and reconstructing the bridge footings.

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While on the ground, crews will work on encapsulating the bridge span to remove paint, replace structurally deficient steel members, replace wood decking and stairs, repaint it, and install new lighting. Additionally, elevators will be installed on both approaches to make it compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations and provide access for all individuals.

Once these initial steps are completed, reconstruction of the bridge span is expected to take place later this fall. The height of the bridge will also be raised by 3-4 feet from its previous height. This is necessary to provide additional clearance above the tracks for future maintenance work by BNSF while still preserving the historic integrity of the bridge. The finalization of stairs and elevator construction will follow, with the project expected to be completed in early 2026.

To celebrate this milestone, the City of Springfield, along with project partners Historic Commercial Street, BNSF Railway, Great River Engineering, and Branco Enterprises, is planning a construction kickoff and viewing event during the dismantling of the bridge. More details about this event will be announced once scheduling information is finalized.

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For more information on the project and to sign up for regular email updates, interested individuals can visit springfieldmo.gov/footbridge.

The Jefferson Avenue Footbridge holds significant historical and engineering importance. Built in 1902 by The American Bridge Company of Pennsylvania, it was the first bridge of its kind to be constructed in Missouri. Its innovative multi-arched cantilever design allowed for minimal disruption to the rail lines below during construction. The bridge also symbolizes the unification of North and South Springfield and their connection to the railroad industry.

In 2003, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Prior to its closure in 2016 due to safety concerns, it served as a vital pedestrian and bicycle connection between Commercial Street Historic District and Woodland Heights Neighborhood. It also played a role in promoting growth in the Moon City Creative District located across the tracks to the north.

The closure was necessary after Public Works discovered corrosion and steel loss during a routine inspection. To address these issues, Great River Engineering conducted a thorough structural evaluation which revealed deficiencies in over one third of the primary structural members. This led to its continued closure until extensive repairs could be made.

With rehabilitation work set to begin soon, residents can look forward to once again utilizing this iconic piece of Springfield's history as a means of connecting different parts of their community.

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