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'The First' to Cross the Riverwalk Bridge
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IDB employees Jodi George and Michael Barber were selected at random to be the first visually impaired people to "cane" across the Principal Riverwalk's Center Street Bridge as part of its opening ceremony on Monday, June 28.
George, who runs the Department's Aids and Devices store, and Barber, an assistive technology specialist, were among a select group of community members to cross the 400-foot span over the Des Moines River. George walked from the west end, and Barber from the east. They met in the middle where city and other officials cut a ceremonial ribbon.
"It was exciting," said George, "especially when everyone got on the bridge and it started vibrating."
The day was also George's birthday, so her selection to walk across the bridge was doubly special. She saw the organizers' intention to have visually impaired community members to take part in the event as a sign that "being blind doesn't limit a person. We're just like any other person," she said.
The bridge, which runs east and west across the river, was constructed as the centerpiece of the Riverwalk. Its white archway and split walkway make for an attractive addition to the downtown Des Moines scenery. The bridge is lit at night to illuminate the arch in white lights, while the walkway is lit with blue lights.
Much of the $12.5 million for the pedestrian bridge was donated by Principal Financial Group, headquartered in Des Moines.
The bridge is now open to the public.
Read more about the Riverwalk.
