James P. Kirkwood Bridge Replacement
City of Kirkwood, Missouri

Design requirements included aesthetically compatible with the downtown business district.

Horner & Shifrin designed the replacement of the James P. Kirkwood Bridge (formerly the Clay Avenue bridge) over the Union Pacific Railroad in Kirkwood. Because the 1955 bridge is located near the City’s historic train station, design requirements include that it be aesthetically compatible with the downtown business district. Additional design challenges included the steep grade of the bridge approaches, the vertical clearance requirements for the railroad and very difficult demolition constraints. The design solution included steel trusses that reduce the bridge depth and allow the new 90-foot bridge to meet these requirements. Citizens were able to comment on the proposed design at public hearings prior to proceeding with final design.

This was an extremely challenging design project in that the City wanted the structure to blend with the historic nature of the area and become a local landmark or signature structure. Given the high visibility of the project, it was important that the surrounding site features also be enhanced. Both approach ramps were landscaped with colorful seasonal, low maintenance plants and accentuated with retaining walls. A new pedestrian overlook plaza which allows people to enjoy the view of the historic train station over the rail yard was a key element of the design.

	"Public Works Project of the Year" American Public Works Association, 2001
	"Merit Award" National Steel Bridge Alliance, 2001

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