GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Two upcoming projects could reshape the Mason Street Bridge – including a possible return to street-level crossings – and the public will have a chance to weigh in on the projects at a meeting in two weeks.
The Fox River crossing is formally known as the Donald A. Tilleman Bridge, and is named for a former Green Bay mayor. It opened in 1973, and carries more 34,000 vehicles per day.
The first project, slated for 2026 or 2027 would be to rehab the lift structure at the center of the bridge, which allows boat traffic to pass.
“A recent inspection of the bridge (November 2021) confirmed deterioration exists that needs to be addressed to maintain the long-term operation of the bridge. The bridge is perfectly safe for all modes of travel. However, the current rate of deterioration of the bridge is beyond what can be addressed by routine maintenance of the bridge,” states the DOT information page for the project.
There would be several elements to the project:
- Replacement of bridge deck grates, steel center median, and bascule span stringers
- Abrasive blast cleaning and bridge painting
- Replacement/repair of deteriorated concrete
- Replacement/repair of various other mechanical and electrical elements of the existing lift bridge structure in need of rehabilitation
It has not been determined yet the impacts on vehicle traffic would be.
The cost also has not been determined, but is currently projected to be about $7 to $8 million, according to the DOT.
Marine traffic has the right of way. Of the three downtown bridges, the Tilleman bridge had the fewest openings in 2022 with 95. The Bart Starr Bridge on Walnut Street had 311, while the Ray Nitschke Bridge on Main Street had 268.
The second project is not scheduled until 2032 but would be a much larger project: rehabilitation or replacement of the remainder of the bridge between 12th Avenue on the west side, and Webster Avenue on the east side.
The extent of the work has not been determined, and the project is in the early stage of development. However, removing the elevated portions of Mason Street – except for the part across the river – is an option.
“Due to the age and condition of these structures, the study will take a comprehensive look at a broad range of alternatives that will range from the existing configuration (Mason Street continuing to be grade-separated) to an at-grade alternative where Mason Street will reconnect with the existing street grid system. In addition to these two alternatives, the team will consider hybrid scenarios which will allow for Mason Street to remain grade-separated for a portion of the corridor while considering reconnecting to the street grid at other locations,” states the invitation to the public meeting.
The invitation includes diagrams of three alternatives:
- Remain a grade-separated structure from Ashland Avenue to Monroe Street
- Return to street-level crossings, except across the river
- A hybrid of both options
“Over the next year, the study team will be preparing alternatives that would consider the condition of the infrastructure, review mobility for all users of the corridor, and identify any areas of concern for project improvements. The alternatives would be evaluated for impacts to both the natural and socio-economic environment and will be available for comment at the next public meeting,” the invitation states.
The public meeting is Tuesday, Nov. 14, at 5 p.m., at Washington Middle School, 314 Baird Street, Green Bay. People are asked to use either Door #1 or #8.
