The Bridge Project
Sep 27th, 2009 by Administrator
This Saturday 9/26/09 we took a stroll on the lower level of the Detroit-Superior bridge. It was open to the public for the Bridge Project which featured food, drink, art and performances along the entire span across the Cuyahoga river. The star of the show for me was walking the span itself. Views of the city and lake to the left and right and spine tingling glimpses of the river a hundred feet below.
It would be great if they opened this 24/7 to pedestrians and cyclists. IMO it would be a low cost immediate plus for the city. Thanks and props to all who had the foresight and ambition to make the Bridge Project a reality this weekend.
Flickr VideoIn the video above The the Conference Bike (a tricycle pedaled by 7 riders sitting in a circle) powers east on the lower level of the Detroit-Superior Bridge during the Bridge Project.
Flickr VideoInstallation by Laila Voss using the flooded pedestrian bypass tunnel stairway in the former streetcar station under W.25th on the lower level of the Detroit-Superior Bridge.
For the record, it was my first time on that part of the bridge. Many of you have been there and have told me about it over the decades.
I concur with everything you said, Andy. It was a first time experience for me too. I was there on Friday night and found the space to be simply incredible. As I stood below an old directional sign that hung above, I imagined the hustle and bustle of businessmen from times past: dressed in felt-tipped hats, baggy suits and carrying large, square attache cases, while running from the station as they hurried to get to and from work and home.
I have a fear of heights, but I really enjoyed the view of Cleveland’s skyline when I walked the bridge itself. It was wonderful to walk side-by-side those famous blue lights that have often acted like a beacon for me when coming home from the east side late at night. The majestic blue sheen shining gloriously upon the bridge’s impressive pillars and arches that span vertically across the bridge took my breath away. For me, it felt as if all Cleveland’s beauty was egging my fear of vertigo to keep going. I’m so glad I did.
I would enjoy having this area open and available all the time – it’s yet another interesting piece of Cleveland’s history that I’ve grown to love.