Eau Claire, WI – The Wisconsin Historical Society is pleased to announce the City of Eau Claire has received the Historic Preservation Award in the 2023 Board of Curators Awards. The annual awards program recognizes exceptional work from across the state aligned with the Society’s mission to connect people to the past by collecting, preserving, and sharing stories. The City of Eau Claire received the award for exceptional historic preservation work on the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Omaha Railroad Bridge ("High Bridge") Project.

“Congratulations to the City of Eau Claire for their outstanding contribution to the field of historic preservation,” said Christian Overland, the Ruth and Hartley Barker Director & CEO for the Wisconsin Historical Society. “The High Bridge project highlights the city’s commitment to preserving Wisconsin’s rich public history for future generations.”

The High Bridge features four quintuple intersection lattice deck truss spans, each spanning 180 feet in length and over 30 feet in depth. Supported by imposing stone piers constructed of pillow-cut limestone blocks, it stands 80 feet above the majestic Eau Claire River. Once a vital part of early passenger rail service in Eau Claire, the High Bridge saw its last train pass in 1912. The bridge was abandoned by the Chicago & NorthWestern in 1992, and the City of Eau Claire took ownership in 2007.

After structural damage and recognizing the bridge's significant historical value, the city embarked on a mission to save and restore the community landmark. The $3.9 million project was funded through a combination of a fund balance, bonding and budget reprioritization, driven by widespread support from the community.

The project involved tireless advocacy by Eau Claire citizens, the City Planning Staff, and the City Council. In 2016, the Eau Claire Landmarks Commission designated the High Bridge as a local landmark, and it was later nominated to the National Register of Historic Places. The project was made accessible to the public through a live webcam, daily photographs, and a Facebook page titled "Keeping the History Alive."

The High Bridge restoration represents a pivotal part of downtown Eau Claire's revitalization. For the next 30 to 50 years, it will remain an essential component of the city's bike and pedestrian trail system. The project epitomizes excellence in historic preservation and the collaboration between citizens, historic preservation professionals, municipal staff and elected officials.

For information about the annual Board of Curators Awards, visit: https://wisconsinhistory.org/Records/Article/CS15291

About the Wisconsin Historical Society

The Wisconsin Historical Society, founded in 1846, ranks as one of the largest, most active and most diversified state historical societies in the nation. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing stories. The Wisconsin Historical Society serves millions of people every year through a wide range of sites, programs and services. For more information, visit www.wisconsinhistory.org.

About the City of Eau Claire

Eau Claire, Wisconsin is a vibrant and growing community with an exceptional quality of life for residents and visitors. Rich in history, diversity, natural resources, and opportunity for all - we are growing together. For more information, visit www.eauclairewi.gov.