Columbus Riverwalk Pedestrian Bridge Reopens to the Public
Columbus, Mississippi – Big celebrations were in the air as the cherished Columbus Riverwalk Pedestrian Bridge reopened to foot traffic after being closed for a whopping four and a half years. The bridge, which stretches over the beautiful Old Tombigbee River, has been a significant part of the local community, and its return has brought a renewed sense of excitement.
A Bridge with a Story
This historic bridge first opened to pedestrians way back in the 1920s and has weathered more than a few storms since then. Unfortunately, it faced an unexpected challenge when it was hit by a runaway barge loaded with limestone. City Attorney Jeff Turnage described the incident, stating, “We knew that something big and green had hit the bridge because there’s green paint on the bridge down below.” A dive team later confirmed that the barge had caused serious damage when it struck one of the bridge’s supporting piers.
Repairs and Restoration
The repairs were no small feat, costing around $4 million to fix the damaged pier. Kevin Stafford, the city engineer, provided insight into the effort that went into restoring the bridge. After a year of work and planning, the bridge is back in action, albeit with some modern touches that set it apart from its original construction. Stafford noted, “It’s new. It’s not built in the same style as it was in the ’20s.” However, remnants of the initial structure still remain submerged under the waters of the river, paying homage to the bridge’s rich history.
A Celebration of Community
The reopening ceremony was a joyous event for locals. With the cuts of the ribbon, community members reveled in the opportunity to reconnect with this vital link. After the ceremony, attendees were treated to a lively concert held right under the bridge, featuring the tunes of Delta Rising with John Moehead. The sounds of music blended beautifully with the scenery, creating an atmosphere that celebrated both the past and the future.
The Role of the Bridge
For many, the bridge has always represented more than just a passageway; it was once the sole link between Columbus and the farmlands of Prairie to the west, serving vital roles in commerce and trade. “Now it’s going to bring people into town for recreation and entertainment,” Stafford remarked, underscoring the bridge’s transformation into a recreational hub. As the Riverwalk and the nearby amenities like the soccer complex and amphitheater flourish, the bridge stands at the heart of it all, paving the way for family outings and social gatherings.
A Historic Landmark
Recognized for its historical significance, the Columbus Riverwalk Pedestrian Bridge has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1988. Originally built between 1925 and 1927, it replaced an older bridge constructed in 1878. The evolution of the bridge symbolizes the growth of Columbus over the decades. After serving as a major thoroughfare until the 1980s, it transitioned from active traffic use to a recreational pathway, showcasing the city’s commitment to preserving its historical landmarks while adapting to modern needs.
Looking Ahead
As Columbus navigates through contemporary changes and opportunities, the reopening of the Riverwalk Pedestrian Bridge marks a step forward. The bridge first reopened for pedestrians in 2013 after significant renovations, and this second reopening brings renewed hopes for community engagement and outdoor activities.
With the festivities surrounding the new chapter of this historic bridge, it’s clear that the Columbus Riverwalk Pedestrian Bridge will continue to be a treasured centerpiece for leisure, history, and community connection for years to come. The journey of this remarkable structure ties together past, present, and future in the beautiful setting of Columbus.
