The Autzen Canoe Canal Footbridge closed again today following a brief reopening for pedestrian and cyclist traffic during university events in April, and is expected to be permanently reopened later this month.
The bridge was initially closed in February and remained closed until March 30 when it briefly reopened for university events, including the University of Oregon’s Spring Game on April 25.
According to the City of Eugene, the bridge will be completely repaired and opened by May 24.
As part of the ongoing expansion of the university’s Hatfield-Dowlin complex, which includes a new indoor practice facility, the relocation of two outdoor sports fields and realignment of Leo Harris Parkway for improved traffic flow, the bridge and nearby Lot 8 parking lot closed.
The bridge is being resurfaced and will receive a new girder — a large structural beam — after construction crews discovered it needed to be replaced during the first closure period. Lot 8 will remain closed through August as it continues to be paved and enlarged.
Detours for the duration of the closure include the soft-path footbridges near Emerald Valley BMX park and Cuthbert Amphitheatre. A paved detour is available by following the signed route along MLK Boulevard and through Alton Baker Park, or go east to the bridge near the pond and follow signed detours through the park.
