Preserving Southside’s Bridges
Our bridges are more than infrastructure — they’re gateways to our neighborhood’s identity and history.
Preserving Southside’s Bridges
Our bridges are more than infrastructure — they’re gateways to our neighborhood’s identity and history.
From the very beginning, The Southside Alliance has prioritized the preservation and enhancement of the bridges that span Fourpole Creek. These vital connectors do more than move traffic — they help define the charm and walkability of the Southside.
Our Bridge Committee
The Alliance’s Southside Bridge Committee was originally formed by board members including Dan Gooding, Tom Craig, Alan Caudill, and Chuck Chambers. Their efforts were instrumental in persuading the West Virginia Department of Highways (WVDOH) to incorporate aesthetic treatments for the 8th Street and 5th Street bridges over Fourpole Creek that reflected the original 1920s design, as shown in the 1966 photo below. These structures are historical and visual landmarks essential to our Southside identity.
Ongoing Work
Today, under the leadership of Jason Pennington, the Bridge Committee continues to work closely with the WVDOH and the Greater Huntington Park & Recreation District (GHPRD). Their goal is to ensure that the successful 8th Street Bridge design can be applied to additional crossings of Fourpole Creek — including the 12th Street, 5th Street West/Whitaker Boulevard, and Enslow Park bridges.
We are proud of the progress The Alliance and the Bridge Committee have made and remain steadfast in advocating for bridge designs that honor the character and history of our neighborhood while meeting modern needs.
