Bridge Basics

Bicycling enthusiasts didnt get their wish, but plans for the new Innerbelt Bridge are impressive. Walsh Construction of Chicago was chosen to build the $287.4 million structure by fall 2013. Although a rival firm filed suit claiming the design doesnt mee

by Robert Rozboril | Nov. 3, 2010 | 4:00 AM

Actually, its two bridges: The new Innerbelt Bridge is 4,246 feet long roughly 800 feet less than the current one to make way for a gateway bridge over Ontario Street that will create a smooth transition for traffic leaving and entering downtown, says ODOT project manager Craig Hebebrand.

There are new bike lanes: Safety concerns kept them from the bridge itself, but new bicycle lanes will be installed on the Lorain-Carnegie Bridge, Abbey Avenue and up East Ninth Street to Broadway. A Tremont hillside beneath the new bridge will also be regraded and decorated with trees and shrubs.

It'll light up the night: Energy-efficient LED lights will create a glowing trestle reflected by the Cuyahoga River a bit of eye candy that helped the winning firm close the deal. As Teeuwen explains, We gave five extra bonus points for the design that was most aesthetically pleasing.