Footbridge Renewal at Beloit College’s Logan Museum

Iconic Campus Bridge Restoration

In June 2025, a focused restoration effort took place at Beloit College in Wisconsin, targeting the well-known pedestrian bridge connected to the Logan Museum of Anthropology. Though modest in size, this structure serves a central role on campus—both physically and socially—linking academic buildings and providing a covered gathering spot for students and visitors alike. Over the course of just three days, the bridge received a much-needed update, removing years of rust and wear to restore both the safety and appearance of this high-traffic college hub.

SCOPE OF THE PROJECT:

The restoration focused on cleaning, prepping, and repainting the bridge structure, including its beams, handrails, parapet, deck slab, and deck.

Prior to painting, all surfaces were power washed and scraped to remove peeling paint. Rusted areas were addressed through wire brushing, spot priming, and targeted sanding to ensure long-term adhesion and protection.

The goal was to create a safer, more visually appealing environment for the students and faculty who regularly use the space underneath the bridge for studying, socializing, and moving across campus.

CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS:

The most significant challenge was the extent of rust buildup, particularly in tight, hard-to-reach spaces beneath the bridge.

Crew members used manual sanders and handheld scrapers to access narrow gaps between the piers and longitudinal girders, ensuring thorough removal of corrosion before any coatings were applied. Much of the first day was dedicated to this detailed prep work—a critical step that laid the foundation for a successful finish.

TIMELINE:

The project was completed in just three days, thanks to efficient planning, diligent surface preparation, and skilled execution.