The city is moving forward with a plan to raise the Jefferson Avenue Footbridge in conjunction with the rehabilitation work previously planned for the historic structure. On Tuesday, Springfield City Council approved a funding agreement with BNSF Railway Company for the project.

BNSF operates 13 tracks below the bridge, which has been closed since March 2016. The railway company approached the city with an agreement to contribute $2 million to raise the bridge 3 to 4 feet. This would help BNSF perform track maintenance while protecting the structure itself with improved clearance.

The city will incur about $225,000 in additional costs due to raising the bridge, which it has budgeted to pay out of the contingency funds for the project, according to previous News-Leader reporting .

While not a part of the current agreement, city staff previously said raising the bridge would allow for potential improvements in the future, including at the nearby railroad bridge over Grant Avenue. That bridge, with a clearance of just 11.5 feet, is a frequent place where trucks get stuck and additionally poses walkability and safety issues.

According to a city news release, construction is set to begin this spring with completion anticipated in early 2026. A construction kickoff meeting is planned in the early spring to outline the project process and educate the community on what to expect as construction proceeds.

The rehabilitation project will include ADA upgrades, add elevators, repair corrosion that caused the bridge's structure to deteriorate, and replace existing lead-based paint. After council opted to pursue the full scope of the project last year , the final price tag comes to an estimated $10.8 million.

Marta Mieze covers local government at the News-Leader. Have feedback, tips or story ideas? Contact her at [email protected].