Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail

The Portage Creek Bicentennial Park Trail is a highlight of the Portage Park System. However, the trail ended abruptly at a heavily traveled four-lane roadway. The challenge of providing a safe crossing for pedestrians was complicated by available right-of-way, wetlands, flood plain and poor soil conditions.

The City of Portage decided to extend the trail over the roadway with a pedestrian overpass to allow safe crossing by the trail users. The 120’ clear span Gateway^® truss bridge is 12’ wide and features a metal roof to promote all-weather use of the trail and protect the structure from snow and ice. The project also included adding an extra lane to the roadway in an effort to ease increased traffic demands.

The overpass has proven to be a very popular addition to the trail and blends in with the natural environment of the Portage Creek Bicentennial Park setting. It has been positively received by motorists and the surrounding business community. In addition, the project was awarded “Project of the Year for Structures Less Than $2 Million” by the American Public Works Association.

Initiated in 1976 in honor of the nation’s 200th birthday, the Portage Park System represents a unique marriage between environmental stewardship and community enrichment. The popular park protects the sensitive environment of the Portage Creek Basin and offers residents many opportunities to enjoy the creek and surrounding environment – from walking, hiking, and bike riding to canoe and bicycle surrey rentals.