A Bridge to the Future: A Community Effort

By SUZANNE CATHCART/for The Herald  —  Oakridge, OR – For years, the historic Salmon Creek Trestle Bridge has stood as a silent reminder of the past. But thanks to the dedication of local volunteers, city officials, and a generous grant from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), this iconic structure is poised to become a vibrant part of the community’s future.

No longer suitable for industrial use, this mostly abandoned bridge could become a monumental figure of our community. This project will provide a critical link for pedestrian/bicycle/non-motorized travel between existing parks and community neighborhoods and also provide access to views of the beautiful Salmon Creek.

In the summer of 2023, the ad-hoc volunteer Trestle Bridge Committee applied for a $40,000 grant from the OPRD to conduct a feasibility study. In September, the OPRD awarded the grant to the City of Oakridge. This crucial step paved the way for a comprehensive assessment of the bridge’s potential for restoration and conversion into a pedestrian and bicycle pathway. The results of this study will be presented to the City Council on December 19th.

This is a significant milestone, and the community is invited to attend the meeting to learn more about the project’s future. As we look to the future, the potential of the trestle bridge is truly exciting. It has the power to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Join us at the City of Oakridge City Council Meeting, December 19th, 6:00PM, to celebrate this milestone and support the future of the trestle bridge.