Three-headed-Monster
Pantzlaff , who has seen almost everything , described this project as a “ three-headed-monster ” that included environmental considerations for archaeological resources , a unique park system design , and historical bridge elements .
The project held surprises along the way . Unique environmental challenges presented themselves that affected species from the surrounding habitat . Racine had to consider and accommodate a growing list of animal and insect species such as the northern long-eared bat , rustypatched bumblebee , and queensnake . Queensnakes are very rare and considered “ of the highest priority for conservation ” by Wisconsin ’ s Department of Natural Resources .
The Root River in Racine is a migratory river . It is home to one of two steelhead trout egg-harvesting facilities in Wisconsin owned and operated by the WDNR . This facility collects eggs , nurses them to hatch , and re-releases the fingerlings into the river to ensure very specific migratory guidelines are met .
“ WDNR even considered the need to provide lighting in temporary causeway culverts for the migrating fish , which is something I never realized ,” Rooney said .
In addition , a Native American burial ground was discovered nearby in Mound Cemetery . Artifacts made by the indigenous Woodland and Hopewell Peoples , such as tools and arrowheads , were found .
Designing the bridge with its former beauty in mind was an ongoing , meticulous process that required patience , as Rooney found out when making design choices . “ We went through every single feature to pinpoint color to identically match . We were able to come up with color swatches for the replica mosaic tiles and gargoyles . We even included ornamental lighting to reflect the past design . It was a reflection of the past .”
Looking Toward the Future
The West 6th Street Bridge became one of the most challenging projects
8 | TRENDS Ingenuity , Integrity , and Intelligence .