~ Springfield, MO - The City of Springfield will be hosting a Construction Kickoff Ceremony on Wednesday, June 18 at 10:30 a.m. for the historic Jefferson Avenue Footbridge Rehabilitation. The community is invited to attend the ceremony at the C-Street Market Pavilion located at 321 E. Commercial Street.

The project partners, including Public Works, Branco Enterprises, and Great River Engineering, will be present at the ceremony to share details about the rehabilitation project. Attendees will also have the opportunity to witness the disassembly of the bridge and sign a new steel beam that will be used in its reconstruction.

The decision to disassemble and rehabilitate the bridge on the ground was made by the construction team due to its fracture-critical nature and the variety of work required. This approach was deemed as the safest and most efficient strategy for this historic footbridge.

Branco Enterprises has already begun spot abatement of paint and removing rivets in preparation for construction. They have also started removing the bridge decking.

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The next step in this process will involve dismantling and moving the bridge span in large pieces to the BNSF rail yard. The majority of the span will be placed in the rail yard to the north, with a smaller portion going to the south. Additionally, crews will begin demolition and reconstruction of the bridge footings.

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

The reconstructed bridge span is expected to be 3-4 feet higher than its previous height this fall. This elevation will provide additional clearance above tracks for future maintenance work by BNSF while preserving this historic structure.

The rehabilitation project is estimated to be completed by early 2026. The community is encouraged to attend the Construction Kickoff Ceremony and witness the beginning of this significant project for the city of Springfield.

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