Ada Pedestrian Bridge Over Thornapple River Set to Open July 16 as Businesses Anticipate Foot Traffic Boost
The new 270-foot pedestrian bridge over the Thornapple River in Ada Township is set to open July 16 after weather delays. Local businesses anticipate increased foot traffic and improved parking conditions downtown.
Bridge Connects Both Sides of Thornapple River
Construction crews installed deck pieces over the weekend, connecting both sides of the new 270-foot pedestrian bridge over the Thornapple River in Ada Township. The project began in January with an initial completion target of July 15. Weather-related delays have shifted that timeline slightly. Township Manager Julius Suchy said the bridge deck pour was delayed until Monday, July 6. The pour and approach work will take two days to complete. The deck and approach will then need eight days to cure before the bridge can open to pedestrian traffic. Township officials now expect the bridge to open Thursday, July 16. Grass restoration work will continue after the bridge opens, with final project inspection scheduled for Monday, July 20.
Local Businesses See Parking and Traffic Relief
Jason Kelly, general manager of Ada Garage Bar, believes the bridge will benefit downtown businesses by increasing foot traffic and easing parking challenges.
"Anything increasing foot traffic, as well as again alleviating the parking, will help all the businesses around the downtown area," Kelly said.
Kelly describes the current parking situation downtown as "get in where you fit in." He noted that some employees already walk to work and the new bridge will help them get to work faster.
"I have a couple that walk, and that bridge will definitely help them get to work a little faster," he said.
Safety Concerns Addressed
The bridge also addresses safety concerns from neighbors who felt unsafe walking on the existing bridge due to its proximity to vehicle traffic. Kelly sees the project's benefits extending beyond his restaurant.
"This is our livelihood, but also it helps us to be able to donate and help the community a little more, and... events like fundraising nights for our Forest Hills schools," he said.
Construction Timeline
- July 6: Bridge deck pour begins
- July 8: Deck and approach work completes
- July 16: Expected opening to pedestrian traffic
- July 20: Final project inspection
AI-Generated Content Disclosure
This article was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence. While we strive for accuracy, AI-generated content may contain errors. We encourage readers to verify information through the sources linked above.