News

Give Back and Build Bridges This Giving Tuesday

The Anne Springs Close Greenway℠ is getting ready to embark upon a transformative project to enhance connectivity and sustainability across the 2,100-acre property. Beginning this winter, construction will commence on two new steel truss bridges, designed for longevity and resilience with elevations above the 100-year floodplain. Completion is anticipated in summer 2025.

These bridges, integral to the Greenway’s℠ trail system, will replace the former Steele Street road bridge along Springfield Parkway and a swinging bridge near the prairie at the Adventure Road Entrance, improving access to 200 acres of Greenway property that is currently impacted by a trail reroute. The two-bridge solution was chosen for its reduced environmental footprint, as the new bridges are designed to minimize impact on the surrounding ecosystem and watershed. Updates to nearby trails are also planned, creating a sustainable trail system for hikers, bikers and equestrians for years to come and that aligns with the Greenway’s conservation priorities.

Last year, over 100,000 visitors explored the Greenway’s Adventure Road and Blue Star entrances, underscoring the need for improved connectivity on this portion of the property. By creating seamless access across Steele Creek, this project exemplifies the Greenway’s mission to preserve natural beauty and create low-impact recreation opportunities throughout this treasured space.

This ambitious initiative represents an estimated $1.77 million investment, funded through a combination of Greenway endowment support and community contributions. To offset the financial burden and ensure the project can be completed without detriment to other budgeted programs and facilities, the Greenway will use strategic endowment distributions, emphasizing the long-term vision of the Greenway’s leadership and board of directors. The public will have an opportunity to financially support this vital project during the Greenway’s end-of-year giving campaign, beginning on Giving Tuesday, December 3. The effort will be bolstered by a $25,000 matching gift generously donated by Dave Davenport in loving memory of his late wife, Marion Davenport.

As the Greenway approaches its 30th anniversary in April 2025, this significant project highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure in preserving this unique natural resource for generations to come. The Anne Springs Close Greenway is deeply grateful for the continued support of the community and looks forward to celebrating this milestone together.

Learn more about the project in a video update HERE.

To be a part of the continued legacy, make a gift to the campaign at LINK.