On Thursday evening, the iconic Tank Creek Bridge along the Great River State Trail succumbed to flames, rendering it unusable and prompting an indefinite closure. According to reports from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the bridge, a relic of the mid-20th century turned recreational path overcrossing, fell victim to an intense fire last Thursday. While thankfully no injuries were reported, the beloved bridge is considered a complete loss. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has urged the public to refrain from attempting access to the compromised structure as they proceed with the removal of debris.
The probe into the origins of the flame that consumed the bridge over 200 feet long, connecting a thread in Wisconsin's scenic fabric, is ongoing. Perched about three miles east of Trempealeau, the bridge was a permanent fixture since 1957, standing witness to the transformation from an operational component of the Chicago-Northwestern railway line to a beloved section of the 24-mile-long trail. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, there is no detour currently available, and the path toward establishing a timeline and budget for the bridge's replacement remains uncharted as of now.
Rich in history and structure, the Great River State Trail boasts a total of 21 bridges along its span, many of which are century-old remnants of the railroad era. Featuring a crushed limestone surface, the trail meanders through the majestic Upper Mississippi River Valley, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and a nod to the past. It serves as a critical link between Trempealeau and Onalaska and further connects to the La Crosse River Trail to the south, punctuating the local topology with its versatile path, as per the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Safety remains a paramount concern for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as they delve into the aftermath of the incident. An assessment of the damage and subsequent actions to ensure proper cleanup are the immediate priorities. Details on potential reconstruction are scarce, and with the spirited call of the trail temporarily silenced at the site of the Tank Creek Bridge, many anticipate the void left in the wake of its abrupt departure. The trail remains open, albeit with a significant segment effectively excised until plans for the bridge's fate emerge.
