Jeffersonville Mayor Mike Moore waits to cut the ribbon officially opening the Big Four Bridge on Tuesday. Staff photo by Elizabeth Beilman
JEFFERSONVILLE — Southern Indiana residents wasted little time in taking advantage of the region’s newest recreational attraction.
As soon as the gates were open to the ramp leading up to the Big Four Bridge in Jeffersonville at about 1:30 p.m. today, walkers dotted the incline eager to take advantage of the long-awaited pedestrian and bicycle bridge.
Louisville’s side opened more than a year ago, leaving Jeffersonville residents and elected officials eager with anticipation and upset over months of construction delays.
That all changed at 2 p.m. today with a ceremonial opening of the Jeffersonville side by Mayor Mike Moore, who was joined by Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer at the top of Jeffersonville’s ramp.
“We know the significance of this day, and we are finally here,” Moore said.
Moore, who was outspoken against the Indiana Department of Transportation because of earlier delays, put aside his differences today.
“Without INDOT’s participation, this project would not be complete,” he said.
Moore’s Louisville counterpart had high praise.
“Mayor Moore has been a major champion to get this open,” Fischer said.
Other Louisville officials chimed in.
"Probably without question the most anticipated part of the [Waterfront] Park,” said Waterfront Development Corp. President David Karem.
As soon as the ribbon was cut at about 2:15 p.m., pedestrians and bicyclists paraded across the bridge.
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