Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Walk Bike Bridge topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
South Burlington breaks ground on I‑89 walk‑bike bridge to connect UVM and city center
Summary
South Burlington officials and federal representatives marked the start of construction on a pedestrian and bicycle bridge at Exit 14 of I‑89, citing safety, reduced vehicle trips, and regional connectivity; officials credited federal grants and local TIF funds for making the project possible.
Tim Barrett, chair of the South Burlington City Council, opened a ceremony announcing the start of construction for the East‑West Transportation Crossing, also called the Walk Bike Bridge, at Exit 14 of Interstate 89. Barrett said the bridge will give students, commuters and residents “a low carbon emission opportunity to cross the interstate in a safe manner,” addressing a crossing that has long been hazardous for pedestrians and bicyclists.
Federal and local officials at the ceremony framed the bridge as part of the city’s long‑term plan to create a compact, walkable downtown and to connect major regional employers with active‑transportation options. Kara Tenasi, outreach representative for Senator Bernie Sanders, said the senator supported the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that has helped fund projects like this one. “One of the simplest ways to [reduce emissions] is to help people get to where they need to go by walking or biking instead of driving,” Tenasi said. City and state partners, including VTrans and design firm VHB, were thanked for helping the project move from planning into construction.
