Stone Arch Bridge is adding natural beauty to Dunning Springs

If you haven't been to Dunning Springs this year, you will be pleasantly surprised the next time you walk up to view the 200-foot waterfall. Last year, stone mason Ted Wilson began constructing a stone arch bridge, adjacent to the current wooden bridge. The stones were so heavy, each stone was put into place with a hoist.

The bridge project was spearheaded by the generous donation of Deco Products and the Chris and Rhonda Storlie family. Additional funding included the first proceeds from the newly established Park-Rec endowment.

The stone bridge is almost complete, adding a stunning feature to the natural spring area. The decision was made to use all rock and stone for the bridge, which fits in nicely with the waterfall and natural surroundings.

"The first phase of the bridge project is almost complete, there are a few minor bridge details and landscaping items to finish up this summer," according to Decorah Park and Recreation Director Andy Nimrod.

Phase 2 is planned to be completed in the summer of 2018. The bridge will be completed when the rock work on the far side of the bridge and rock steps are built up to the first landing platform. "We will replace the first flight of wood steps with a curved pathway of steps that will take you from the bridge up to the landing," said Nimrod.  
 
The City Parks crew will be taking the old wooden bridge out soon and building a temporary walkway so that the new bridge can be put into service. Landscaping will continue this summer as time allows. There will also be informational signage added, explaining the project's current stage.

The bridge in the first stages in the fall of 2016

Decorah resident Randy Fulton volunteers to assist with the bridge last fall

Stone mason Ted Wilson (photo courtesy of Decorah Park and Rec)

The rock and stones add character to the bridge