Originally constructed in 1926, the Van Buren Footbridge connects Grant Park east of the Metra railroad tracks to the west side of Grant Park situated between the railroad tracks and Michigan Avenue, providing access to the Metra station located below. A unique feature of this footbridge is the historic architectural ornaments. This includes the concrete balustrade railing and rostral columns that are significant features to the bridge and the surrounding Park structures.

As a sub-consultant to exp U.S. Services, Garza Karhoff Engineering provided Structural Engineering services and Construction Administration for the rehabilitation of the Van Buren Footbridge over the Metra Tracks. The project consisted of an on-site bridge inspection of the existing 200-foot long, three-span bridge and preparation of a Bridge Condition Report. The bridge condition report provided assessment of the existing structure and recommended complete deck replacement of the historic structure along with reconstruction of the North Stair. Tasks included preparing construction documents for the rehabilitation of the existing steel girders and concrete deck replacement.  Construction administration services consisted of shop drawing reviews and addressing RFI’s related to the construction.