LOUSIANA, Mo. — A large crowd braved cool, wet weather to be part of the last formal ceremony involving the new Champ Clark Bridge at Louisiana. An interpretive panel designed by students at Hannibal High School was dedicated at Henderson Riverview Park, which overlooks the new structure. The bridge opened last August. Hannibal High was the winner of five teams from four schools that submitted designs. Wording on the top was provided by the team from Pittsfield High. The panel includes pieces from the old bridge, which has been demolished.The ceremony was organized by the Missouri Department of Transportation and featured representatives from general contractor Massman Construction. Speakers included New London resident John W. Briscoe of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission. Students, local government leaders and residents attended. The new bridge replaced one that carried traffic for more than 90 years.
Photo: Missouri Department of Transportation Bridge Project Director Keith Killen addresses the audience at the Jan. 15 dedication of an interpretive panel erected in Henderson Riverview Park. A bust of John Brooks Henderson is at left.