Even while being constructed in the 1920s , it seemed like an impossible feat , but original designer Charles S . Whitney and his team rose to the challenge , using creative and innovative techniques of their time to achieve what seemed unachievable . The result was an amazing historical bridge that would become a valued part of the community , beloved for its unique beauty .
However , the bridge that once stood proudly became a shell of its former self . With its concrete crumbling , the bridge became unsafe for travel . With so much history embedded in the bridge , there would need to be a solution that connected the City and its history to the present .
History of Racine ’ s West 6th Street Bridge Construction
he West 6th Street Bridge was originally constructed in December 1928 by
T the Zendala Construction Company and designed by Charles S . Whitney . Back then , they had to contend with constant flooding from the river , a narrow bridge site , and steep embankments on either side of the river . They needed to build a structure that could withstand the strong currents of the Root River , support heavy traffic , and drain rainwater while still being aesthetically pleasing to the community .
The Wisconsin Historical Society notes that the Art Deco , 161-foot-long and 58-foot-wide bridge featured decorative terra cotta relief panels depicting gargoyles , eagles , bison , ships , and agricultural symbols , produced by the Northwestern Terra Cotta Company in Chicago . The gargoyles served not only as decorative art for the bridge , but also functioned to drain rainwater producing a waterfall effect into the Root River . The 58-foot-wide deck boasted colorful ceramic tile panels with geometric patterned squares .
Source : https :// www . wisconsinhistory . org / Records / Property / HI11344
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