by: Rex Smith
Source: wane.com
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) — After months of lane restrictions and a few overnight closures, the City of Fort Wayne hosted a dedication ceremony to celebrate the official opening of the Veterans Memorial Bridge Sunday night.
The bridge is located along U.S. 27 northbound and crosses the St. Marys River just north of Superior Street in downtown.
Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry thanked those who were part of renaming the bridge.
“The renovation of this signature gateway bridge provides motorists and pedestrians, now, with safe and innovative ways to navigate our city,” he added. “Years from now, I hope we all take time to look at this bridge from time to time and remember why we’re here: to honor our veterans in our community and celebrate this bridge with a new name. To show our respect to those individuals who have served and who are serving now.”
The ceremony included a ribbon cutting, flag ceremony, three-volley salute, and presentation of the sculpture created by local sculptor Cary Shafer.
Active military and veterans from all branches of the military were present.
The city of Fort Wayne highlighted the project’s details:
- The bridge continues to provide three through lanes for motorists while also providing additional pedestrian width to enhance the connectivity of downtown to The Old Fort and the adjacent neighborhoods.
- A railing was installed to separate vehicular traffic from pedestrian traffic.
- Several bump-out areas were provided for pedestrians above the pier locations to create focal points. A pedestrian plaza area was provided at the southwest corner of the bridge. Curved columns featured at the bump-out areas accommodate accent lighting elements. Lighting for illumination of the roadway as well as the pedestrian walkways has been included.
- 23,500 vehicles pass over the bridge each day.