Originally constructed in 1885 by the Choctaw and Memphis Railroad, it was operated by the Union Pacific Railroad carrying trains across the Arkansas River until 1984 when its active railroad use ended. Years later Union Pacific negotiated a deal with the city in Little Rock's attempt to shore up pedestrian rights-of-way throughout the area. As a result the railroad transferred ownership of the Junction Bridge and the Rock Island Bridge on December 27th, 2001.

Now complete, this most pivotal $5.8 million phase of the broader Six Bridges project will somehow accommodate pedestrian, cycling, and cafe foot traffic.  Although concessions have been made since the first conceptual renderings, this bridge will serve us much better than the narrow walkways aside the Main and Broadway bridges.  The only way to top it would be to design a bigger and better... oh wait, remember?  There's still one bridge which hasn't made it off  the drawing board. 

The Rock Island Bridge was to be renovated by the Clinton Foundation as an extension of the Library to serve as the southern-most part of the Six Bridges plan.  Now a grassroots movement wants to ensure this historic landmark is renovated as promised. Over five years ago, officials from the Clinton Foundation and the city of Little Rock promised members of the public that they would transform this old steel structure into a pedestrian and bicycle crossing.  Original cost projections have skyrocketed from $6 million to now nearly twice that amount.  Thanks in part, as one might expect, to rising fuel and steel costs.  

Like it or not, our boathouse is located directly between the two and as such it's a topic which commands our attention.  We'll be attending the opening ceremony this Saturday and hope you will too. See you there!