The Commercial Club of Springfield is taking orders for personalized pavers to support restoration of the Jefferson Avenue Footbridge. The pavers will be installed in honor of those who purchase them in the plaza area under the Jefferson Avenue Footbridge by Springfield Public Works.
These red granite pavers are now available for purchase in two sizes:
- The 4” x 8” paver is $100 for three lines of type or $375 with a logo or design element.
- The 8” x 8” paver is $300 for three lines of type or $500 with a logo or design element.
The form for these options is very easy to understand and can be downloaded at , printed, filled out and sent to Commercial Club of Springfield with a check by mail or filled out and paid for via Paypal online at historicCstreet.com . The Club will also will be happy to send a form if contacted via historicCstreet.com or at 417-839-0119.
Commercial Club is extremely thankful for Springfield City Council’s recent approval of funding to restore, light and make our Jefferson Avenue Footbridge accessible to all. The funds approved include a Commercial Club commitment to raise $50,000 for replacement of decking on our 562-foot long treasure. The club has raised nearly $40,000, which includes a $15,000 grant from hotel/motel sales tax funds. This leaves about $10,000 left to raise. The club hopes these beautiful red granite pavers, personalized by community members who wish to permanently show their support for this unique and important north side landmark, will fulfill Commercial Club’s promise.
“This 116-year old structure is important for its connection to early steel manufacturing by Andrew Carnegie and design by the American Bridge Company. Culturally, it informs us on the history of the railroad to Springfield and its impact on local economy. There is a story to be told here and this structure stands as a statement of American progress and the growth of its cities,” said Zone 1 Councilwoman Phyllis Ferguson.
Funds raised from paver sales will be deposited in the Jefferson Avenue Footbridge Fund within Community Foundation of the Ozarks. This fund will be turned over to the City when it reaches the $50,000 promised by the club. Hopefully, this fund can continue to grow to help offset the cost of ongoing maintenance for the footbridge.
, “This amazing structure belongs to all of us. We owe it to the community to preserve and protect it as a pedestrian walkway across active rail lines, a tourism destination and for future generations as the ‘Eiffel Tower of Springfield,’ the only structure of its kind anywhere,” said Commercial Club of Springfield President Mary Collette.
For more information, please contact Commercial Club President Mary Collette at 417-839-0119 or Zone 1 City Councilwoman Phyllis Ferguson at 417-844-6117.