Enhancing Connectivity & Sustainability

The collapse of the Steele Street road bridge along Springfield Parkway—following a series of heavy rains—marked a significant moment in the history of the Anne Springs Close Greenway. This abandoned DOT-owned highway had been a crucial component of the Greenway trail system since its opening in 1995.

To restore access and improve sustainability, the Greenway is undertaking an ambitious $1.77 million project to build two new pedestrian bridges over Steele Creek: one replacing the road bridge (downstream bridge) and the other replacing an aging swinging bridge near the Field Trial Barn (upstream bridge).

These new steel truss bridges, selected for their resilience and minimal environmental impact, will reconnect the Adventure Road and Blue Star entrances, enhancing access for hikers, dog walkers and mountain bikers and restoring connectivity to 200 acres of Greenway property currently impacted by a necessary trail reroute. Elevated above the 100-year floodplain to withstand future storm events, the bridges are designed to support low-impact recreation while aligning with the Greenway’s conservation mission.

Once completed in Summer 2025, the updated trails and bridges will ensure a durable and connected network for generations to come, embodying the thoughtful stewardship at the heart of the Greenway’s mission.