"Revamped Parnell Avenue Bridge Unveiled: A Smooth Ride Ahead"

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Parnell Avenue Bridge Officially Reopens After Major Rehabilitation

Mayor Sharon Tucker joins city leaders and residents to celebrate $2.68 million investment in Fort Wayne’s infrastructure

Fort Wayne Completes Rehabilitation of Parnell Avenue Bridge

Fort Wayne, IN, September 18, 2025 A ribbon cutting ceremony marked the official reopening today of the Parnell Avenue Bridge over the St. Joe River, following a major rehabilitation project. Mayor Sharon Tucker, Public Works officials, business leaders, and local residents gathered at 11:00 a.m. on the bridge to celebrate the completion.

What Was Done:

The bridge deck was replaced, and structural components such as spandrel arches and the substructure received repairs.
Sidewalks and approaches were upgraded, including ADA curb ramps and pedestrian infrastructure improvements.
Scour protection was added to mitigate erosion and improve the bridge’s long-term stability.
High visibility pavement markings were installed.

Investment and Broader Context

The city invested $2.68 million into the Parnell Avenue Bridge project. Meanwhile, the Public Works Division is putting approximately $41.4 million toward neighborhood infrastructure improvements across the city in 2025.

Mayor Tucker emphasized that bridges are more than just transportation links. She noted that they are key to the safety, economic activity, and quality of life in neighborhoods. She also pointed out that the improvements will benefit not only traffic flow but also the pedestrian experience and connectivity for communities near the river corridor.

Interesting Facts About the Parnell Avenue Bridge

The bridge was originally built in 1927, making it nearly a century old.
It has been widened twice, once in 1970 and again in 1993.
Because it spans the St. Joe River, what happens to the bridge has implications not just for vehicle traffic, but for river ecology, flood risk, and urban connectivity. The scour protection added is particularly important for preventing erosion under and around the bridge foundations.
ADA accessibility, once a newer requirement, is now standard for such rehabilitations. The addition of ADA curb ramps and upgraded sidewalks helps make this crossing usable by all residents.