Omaha Exploration

The 3,000 sq ft Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge spanning the Missouri River while connecting Omaha and Council Bluffs dates back to 1994. At that time a committee was formed with representatives from both both cities to find ways to return to the river. Some of the ideas included a tram that crossed the river and a water taxi. Ultimately they settled on a pedestrian bridge.

The design that was ultimately chosen was a cable-stayed bridge that gave the impression it was floating above the Missouri River. It also had a distinctive curve that was symbolic of the river that sits 60 feet below. When it opened in 2008 it was and remains the only pedestrian bridge connecting two states.

The bridge is named for former Nebraska Senator Bob Kerrey who secured $19M of the $22M in federal funding to construct the bridge. Other funding came from the Papip-Missouri River Natural Resources District and the Iowa West Foundation. Gallup donated the lights on the bridge which often change colors based on holidays and other events.

On the Omaha side, the bridge can be accessed near the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Headquarters and Visitor Center. Just outside its entrance is an interactive water jet fountain to cool off during the warm summer months, River Critters Play Area and Omar, the giant blue troll. It also connects to more than 150 miles of nature trails and sits near Lewis and Clark Landing which is one of three renovated parks that make up The Rivefront.

Meanwhile the entrance on the Council Bluffs side is inside Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park which features a five acre great lawn, amphitheater and a small venue with an observation deck on its roof. Filled largely with natural grasses its design is simple due to its tendency to flood on the eastern banks of the river. The park hosts multiple events throughout the year.

As you cross the bridge, you’ll come across a spot where you can stand in both Nebraska and Iowa at the same time. You can also catch spectacular views of Omaha’s skyline and River’s Edge Park in the distance and the Missouri River below. If you need a rest or feel unsafe, there are plenty of benches and emergency buttons to call for help. It also has a few plaques so that you can learn a few things on your journey.

The landmark bridge has become a popular tourist attraction that is sure to become even more popular once the North Downtown Pedestrian Bridge also known as the Baby Bob connects to Bob Kerrey. Getting to the bridge from the College World Series or an event at CHI Health Center takes about about 20 minute today. The connector bridge will cut the distance down from one mile to a quarter mile. The future streetcar will also stop near the bridge.

Please feel free to comment to share your thoughts.

Until next time, keep exploring!

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