Should Cambridge Replace or Remove Two Pedestrian Bridges in Mill Race Park?
Official title: Mill Race Park Pedestrian Bridges
Two pedestrian bridges in Mill Race Park have been closed since 2022. The city asked residents to choose between three options: remove both bridges ($50,000), rebuild both ($400,000), or rebuild only one ($200,000). Over 450 people responded, and the preferred option was to rebuild Bridge 3 while removing Bridge 2.
Why This Matters
Use Mill Race Park for walks or bike rides? These bridges affect how you get around. The decision balances cost, accessibility, and preserving the park's heritage character.
What Could Change
Based on public feedback, Bridge 3 will likely be rebuilt following the 2019 design, while Bridge 2 will be permanently removed. The city is consulting with stakeholders and will present findings to Council in spring 2024.
Key Issues
- Should both bridges be removed, both rebuilt, or only one rebuilt?
- How should cost considerations ($50,000 to $400,000) factor into the decision?
- How can heritage aspects of the area be preserved during any reconstruction?
How to Participate
- The survey closed on December 8, 2023. Over 450 responses were received. The city is now consulting with stakeholders and will present findings to Council in spring 2024.
What Happened
Over 450 survey responses were received. The preferred option was to replace Bridge 3 and permanently close and remove Bridge 2. Cost and heritage aspects were key factors in respondents' decisions. More than 240 comments were submitted sharing insights about the pedestrian bridges.