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Frequently Asked Questions  |
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 The City of Salem and Salem’s Urban Renewal Agency (Agency) have been working toward a long-standing community vision of connecting three major urban parks, and more than twenty miles of trails via two pedestrian bridges over the Willamette River.
In 2009, part of this goal was realized with the renovation of the historic Union Street Railroad Bridge, connecting West Salem’s Wallace Marine Park with downtown’s Riverfront Park.
Completion of the Minto Island Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge (Bridge) and adjoining multimodal trail (Trail) is the last critical link.
Project Background
Since 2007, the City and Agency have invested more than $100,000 to prepare for the Bridge and Trail project and more than $1,200,000 to support the Union Street Railroad Bridge conversion. In 2008, a concept-design study considered four Bridge alternatives.
In October 2010, City Council approved a tied arch Bridge design concept with a 14 foot wide deck. In December 2010, an easement agreement was executed to allow construction of the Bridge and Trail landing across the privately-owned Minto Island. In 2011, an agreement was reached to secure access across the Willamette Slough. We are ready!
The Minto Bridge and Trail are an adopted FY 11-12 Council goal and identified in several supporting plans and policies, including the Riverfront Downtown Urban Renewal Area Plan, South Waterfront Urban Renewal Area Plan, Comprehensive Park System Master Plan, the Salem Transportation System Plan (TSP), and the Salem Vision 2020 Action Plan.
Documents
Staff Contacts
Annie Gorski 503.588.6178 |
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Next Steps
Design & Permitting: Staff will hire, through a competitive process, a bridge design engineer to complete the bridge design, perform needed studies, and apply for permits. When the detailed design work is underway, more information will be made available and there will be more opportunities for community input.
Funding: The City of Salem is now in the position to move forward with design and permitting, and to seek funding. The City will seek funds to help support the project including state and federal funds, foundation grants, contributions from individuals and businesses, help from volunteers, and in-kind donations.
Bridge Design Concept
- Approved by Council, 2010
Low Clearance
Tied Arch Design
Spans Willamette Slough |
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Want to Get Involved
The Friends of Two Bridges is a non-profit grassroots group dedicated to the design and construction of the Minto Island Bridge and the Union Street Railroad Bridge. In addition to gathering support for conversion of the Union Street Railroad Bridge, the group worked on its ribbon cutting ceremony and an interpretive display. The group is also gathering support for funding the Minto Island to Riverfront Park bridge connection.
Contact Hazel Patton at 503.581.4939 or email her at ptn1363@msn.com to be added to the email roster. |
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