I think it's probably safe to say that a lot of people in Riverdale, Cloverdale and surrounding communities here in Edmonton were quite heartbroken by the closure of the pedestrian/bike bridge for the construction of the Valley LRT line back in 2016. Five years is a long time to wait to walk across the river to visit each other.
Shadow and I walked the old footbridge quite a bit with his people, neighbours and friends back in his puppyhood. It was an important link in the River Valley corridor that so many people love, and a lot of people missed it.
Lee and I watched and commented on the progress of the construction of its replacement, Tawatina Bridge, every time we walked the dog in Strathearn Park, which overlooks the site. And we were really thrilled when it reopened on December 12... so much so that we took Shadow and went down a couple of hours in advance of its official opening to check it out (and avoid the crowds).
It definitely didn't disappoint.
It is (or soon will be) a functional transit bridge for the Valley Line, yes, but it's also a cultural space with art by Indigenous artists that speak to Indigenous history, to the creatures that live here, and to our connections as human beings to the web of life. My poor little camera can't do the artwork justice -- you'll just have to see it for yourself. I've been there three times already, and look forward to going back again, because there's always more to notice... and I love being near the river, too.
Why not check Tawatina Bridge out for yourself? (And tell me about your favourite art work there? I love the painting of the view to the top of the teepee -- not pictured here -- the "beaded" images of people, and all the different animals...)
May this bridge always remind Edmontonians that we are responsible for working for truth and reconciliation, upholding our part in Treaty Six, and respecting all community members: human, animal, plant, air, water, earth and fire...
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