Knickerbocker footbridge reopens to improved, safer park path connections

From ODOT-

Path users who cross the Knickerbocker Bridge will notice differences on the bridge, as well as on the path connecting the bridge to the north bank.



The Eugene Water and Electric Board closed the bridge to repair the water pipe suspended under the bridge. While the bridge was closed, contractor Hamilton Construction provided access by cutting holes in the bridge deck. The holes are now covered with concrete lids that EWEB crews can lift when they need to service the water pipe, shortening the length of future bridge closures.

A new concrete lid on the north end of the Knickerbocker Bridge allows EWEB to more easily reach the water pipe below.

Our crews took advantage of the bride closure to complete a new path connecting the Knickerbocker Bridge with North Walnut Road. This connection had been very steep, with sharp turns. The new path is much safer because it is wider, has a gentler slope and connects to North Walnut Road with a T-intersection farther from other path connections.

The new connection with North Walnut Road allows path users to easily go east or west.

You will see more path improvements in the Whilamut Natural Area, as the new Interstate 5 Willamette River bridges are completed.