[0]275 ft pedestrian bridge takes you safely over McLaughlin Blvd
[0]Street girder bridge provides quick passage over Johnson Creek
[0]Pre-fab bowed truss bridge over Union Pacific RailroadYesterday morning was the dedication of the Springwater Corridor Trail's [1] three new bridges. I gathered with a congregation of local Parks supporters that included bikers, walkers, toddlers, seniors, and pets who turned out for the event. It was the culmination of over a year of hard work and planning that went into the challenging task of constructing the pedestrian bridges. Each bridge has a unique design and traverses a different type of terrain.
The morning's festivities began near the intersection of SE 19th and Ochoco where Director of Portland Parks and Recreation [2] Zari Santer greeted everyone. Joining her at the podium were other local officials and project supporters including Milwaukee mayor, Jim Bernard, Metro Councilors Rex Burkholder and Brian Newman, and US Representative Earl Blumenauer.
After singing Happy Birthday to Rep. Blumenauer, we set out on the trail extension's official debut. Kilt-clad bagpipe players lead the procession, stopping us at each bridge for the ribbon cutting ceremony. This ribbon cutting was not about recognizing public officials or glorifying the project's creators. Although the proud leaders of the project had scissors in their hands, they brought plenty of extras and handed them to members of the crowd. The act reminded me that these bridges were built for us, the general public, and all we have to do to prove that their construction was worthwhile is enjoy them. At the end of the trail, we gathered for cider, cookies, and closing remarks from Mayor Potter and the 40 Mile Loop Board Member [3] and trail advocate, Barbara Walker.
That was my first experience with the new bridges. I imagine the ones to follow won't have bagpipes and cider, but I'll be back soon. I hope that everyone checks out the new extension. Even if you don't venture to Southeast very often, make a point to spend your next outside play-time in the area so you can see the bridges. The space is bike, pet, and kid friendly and the walk is easy enough for anyone. You can catch the trail from the road at 19th and Ochoco. It takes about twenty minutes to walk the bridge extension or you can continue on the Springwater Corridor Trail.