Autumn Ridge Path and Bridge

Challenge

Highway 30, located on the east side of Madison, Wisconsin, created a major barrier for people walking and biking. Fast-moving traffic through the corridor divided neighborhoods to the north and south, limiting safe access to parks, schools, jobs, and the growing network of shared-use paths. The city identified the need for a continuous, efficient route that could reconnect these neighborhoods and support long-term plans for an expanded east-side trail system.

Solution

The City of Madison partnered with SEH to deliver the 1.5-mile Autumn Ridge Path, a shared-use corridor connecting Milwaukee Street and Commercial Avenue. The project closed a critical gap in the east side’s nonmotorized network by connecting to existing overpasses and trails, with a new bridge across Highway 30 serving as the corridor’s central element and providing a safe, intuitive crossing of the four-lane roadway. The final alignment was shaped through detailed analysis, public feedback, and coordination with partner agencies.

The corridor enhances and extends existing path segments, introduces a new shared-use trail, and provides direct connections to nearby parks and established regional trails. Collectively, these improvements reinforce connectivity and contribute to a more seamless citywide system.

Bridge Design and Construction Efficiency

The centerpiece of the project is the new bridge spanning Highway 30 and Commercial Avenue. The structure includes three prefabricated truss spans with cast-in-place concrete approach spans, including a looped approach designed for smooth, predictable movement for walking and biking.

Fabricating the truss spans off-site minimized work over active traffic, improving safety and reducing disruptions. This approach also allowed for faster installation once components arrived on site, helping maintain steady construction progress while keeping impacts to the traveling public low.

The loop ramp geometry, referring to specific curves and transitions used in highway design, was engineered to provide smooth, predictable movements for walking and biking. This improved the experience for all users while also reducing potential conflict points with vehicles.

Funding and Long-Term Community Benefit

The project was supported by a $2.5 million federal grant, with an additional $2 million provided by the City of Madison. This investment delivered a meaningful improvement for residents by strengthening mobility on the east side, reconnecting neighborhoods, enhancing access to parks and trails, and laying the foundation for future network expansion.

Today, the Autumn Ridge Path represents far more than a new bridge and trail; it reflects Madison’s commitment to a community where people of all ages can move comfortably and confidently.