Marquette-Joliet Bridge Scenic Overlook and Boardwalk

HR Green provided design and construction engineering services for the renovation of the Marquette-Joliet Bridge scenic overlook, including a new stairway connection to the Cobblestone Inn/City Hall pedestrian bridge, and a new boardwalk extending into the Mississippi River. It offers ample viewing opportunities and provokes interest in the area’s resources through interpretive sign panels. The project was partially funded by a National Scenic Byway grant through the Federal Highway Administration.

HR Green was responsible for all aspects of the Marquette-Joliet Bridge scenic overlook and boardwalk design from site analysis and preliminary design through final plans and construction. A full access overlook structure was designed along with a shelter and decorative railing to meet the City’s aesthetic requirements. The stairway connection was designed to limit the amount of foundation construction on challenging slopes along an existing bluff. The 140’ long pedestrian boardwalk design took into consideration the soil conditions and level of scour susceptibility at this location along the River. HR Green recommended building materials that took into account maintenance requirements, durability, and cost that also created a cohesive project theme. The team sited each design element to take advantage of the dramatic views along the River.

HR Green coordinated and collaborated with City staff, review committees, the City Council, the Iowa DOT, DNR, FHA, ACOE, USCG, and other public groups critical to the success of the project. HR Green leveraged great relationships and project experience with staff members of each of these agencies and experience in securing permits for this type of construction to provide the necessary information for timely regulatory reviews. The project was completed ahead of schedule and won the 2016 APWA Iowa Chapter Project of the Year Award, in the Structures Category.