The Jefferson Footbridge is a suspension bridge designed especially for pedestrian and bicycle traffic. It spans the north yards of the St. Louis-San Francisco Railroad from Chase Street to the intersection of Jefferson and Commercial Street. Built by public ordinance, the Footbridge provides safe passage for pedestrians from the Woodland Heights neighborhood north of the railway yards to the Commercial Street shopping area.


Some facts about the footbridge:

• Constructed 1902-1907 by The American Bridge Company of Patterson, Pennsylvania
• Original construction costs: $8,200
• The original design included a 245 foot bicycle ramp
• One of the longest footbridges in the U.S. at 562 feet
• Concrete steps replaced the bicycle ramp in 1954
• Renovation completed in 2002
• Total renovation costs: $637,000
• Project funding provided by the Missouri Department of Transportation; City of Springfield; the Commercial Club of Springfield; the Walnut Street Historic District; and the Downtown Springfield Association

Today the Footbridge has lighting to enhance the structure, irrigated landscaping, and a performance stage at the Farmer's Market plaza. It stands as a beautiful example of suspension bridge design and a unique Springfield landmark.