Congratulations to the City of Appleton and the CORRE project team for their hard work on the Lawe Street Trestle Trail project, which is an ACEC 2021 Engineering Excellence State Finalist award-winner.
CORRE is honored to have provided design and construction oversight services for this bridge renovation. A decaying railroad bridge over the Fox River in Appleton was a concern for the city. It was no longer used for trains, but locals used it as an informal crossing point. It was dangerous and an eyesore that needed a solution. CORRE’s design team worked with the City to renovate it and turn it into a pedestrian path. The 103-year-old bridge required extensive structural work to make it sound for the planned use. Additionally, CORRE engaged the community to lobby for grant money to offset the cost.
The new bridge serves a dynamic and growing area of the city. Lawrence University students, residents of the Eagle Point Senior Living development, and other users can now cross the Fox River safely. It expanded access to local businesses and connects this area of the city to the wider trail network. The new bridge pays homage to the city’s history through local art and a name that recognizes the historic hydroelectricity plant nearby.
The City’s vision of turning this obsolete structure into a unique pedestrian crossing has become a reality that benefits all users and fulfills the City’s interconnectivity goals.