Whether energetically rushing or taking a meandering course, the Missouri River is an impressive sight to behold. A source of life, a source of food, a source of recreation—the river is that much and more. As river communities, the citizens of Omaha and Council Bluffs have taken advantage of the recreational, educational, cultural, and economic opportunities the river offers. From boating, to trail usage, to wildlife observation, the river is a source of delight and wonder. Businesses and entertainment have sprouted along its banks, drawing energy from the Mighty Missouri’s path.

Nine years ago, former Nebraska governor and U.S. Senator Bob Kerrey had a vision for a pedestrian bridge across the Missouri River that would connect the communities of Omaha and Council Bluffs. His vision found support, and in 2000, the City of Omaha was awarded a federal grant towards the project.

The resulting Pedestrian Bridge will be defined by twin spires reaching 200 feet into the sky, representing the connection between the cities of Council Bluffs and Omaha. The graceful curved design of the bridge--one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the United States--reflects the elegance of the water that rushes below. At night, the twin spires and graceful cable stays will light up the Missouri River for miles.

The landmark will showcase the trail access, wildlife, and compatible economic development that is possible along the Missouri River. It will enhance the Mighty Missouri and will allow individuals near and far to come closer to its spectacular wonder. Walkers, bikers, joggers, birdwatchers, and others can traverse the 2,700-foot span, which will connect nearly 150 miles of trails in both Iowa and Nebraska.

With groundbreaking in the fall of 2006, Kerrey’s vision is now becoming a reality. The total cost of the bridge is guaranteed at $22 million. The majority of the funding, $17 million, comes from the federal grant. The remaining $5 million must be raised from foundations, corporations, groups, and individuals.

The development of the Pedestrian Bridge is very much in keeping with Back To The River, Inc.’s mission of a vital riverfront, and the organization has stepped forward to lead a community-wide fundraising effort for the project.

Through the “Building Bridges…Connecting Communities,” campaign, Back To The River, Inc. is asking for your financial support to make the bridge a reality.

The Pedestrian Bridge will enrich our river communities, as a point of interest and as an access point for river recreation. Outdoor enthusiasts will be able to use the bridge for walking, running, biking, and wildlife observation. The graceful bridge will also be a catalyst for future economic development along both banks of the river, as additional investors realize the great potential that exists along the Missouri River.