The new 21.9 million dollar pedestrian bridge which links College Hill to the Jewelry District has officially opened as of August 9th, 2019. After the redesign in the I95 project, the bridge became an idea presented to Mayor Cicilline in 2010. Although the original cost of construction was estimated to be approximately 2 million dollars, the actual cost of the completed project was 21+ million.
My friend Cemal and I headed out Saturday morning to see and photograph the bridge. It is indeed an impressive bridge. Designed by William Warner its construction of stainless steel, what looks to me to be mahogany as the main flooring. It twists and turns and has several areas where one can sit and enjoy the landscape, have lunch, play chess, and I think even fish. Everything was pristine, immaculate “as in” new condition.
There were two policemen walking from one side of the bridge to the other, then retracing their steps to where they began. We watched as one of the policemen asked a person on a bike to walk his bike across. There were children with scooters, people sitting on benches as well as people taking pictures and selfies. In all, it was easy for me to understand why the city was requesting bicycle users to walk their bikes across. A request that seems an easy way to minimize the potential for a bike-pedestrial accident.
The first thing catching my attention when approaching the span was its twists and turns. It flowed across the watery expanse with ease that pleases one’s eye. I’ve seen some images of the bridge illuminated at night which now begs another visit at another time. Attached are some images taken Saturday am. If you have not visited the bridge as of yet let me encourage you to make the trip. It is an enjoyable outing as well as being a nice addition to the Renaissance City.
