New Bridge Crowns Columbus, Ohio Riverfront

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The completion of the landmark Rich Street Bridge in downtown Columbus was celebrated at a ribbon cutting held on July 6. Designed by Burgess & Niple (B&N), the official opening marks the final step in replacing three historic, arch bridges that create an iconic new image along the City’s riverfront.

During his comments at the bridge opening, Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman emphasized the access the bridge will provide to help adjacent neighborhoods flourish and prosper.

“This is a beautiful bridge,” noted Mayor Coleman. “It is connected to the economic development of this community.”

The 563-foot Rich Street Bridge includes:

• A modern precast open rib arch structure with five spans and three lanes
• A design that complements the neighboring historic district while blending with the nearby family of arch bridges
• Architectural lighting
• Pedestrian-friendly features such as wide sidewalks, a plaza and utilities for use during festival events

The distinctive bridge design required complex engineering. B&N engineers made refinements during the design process that shortened construction by seven months and reduced estimated project costs by $10 million.

The City has already utilized the pedestrian-friendly features designed specifically for downtown events. The bridge was temporarily opened to pedestrians during the Columbus Arts Festival in June and the City’s July 4th celebration – Red, White & Boom – on July 3.

B&N teamed with Leonhardt, Andrä und Partner and Bridgescape, LLC to create the iconic bridge.