Connecting Past to Present
Explore the Bicentennial Bridge, a 12-foot wide, 785-foot long pedestrian/bicycle bridge connecting the Missouri State Capitol Complex to the 30-acre parkland located at the northeast corner of the Capitol Complex immediately next to the Veterans Memorial.
400,000+ annual Missouri State Capitol visitors can now experience breathtaking views of the Capitol and the Missouri River valley. The Bicentennial Bridge spans the railroad and slope gently down to meet the existing ground elevation on Adrian’s Island. The slope of the trail and bridge meets ADA standards, enabling all users full access to enjoy the riverfront. Visitors can also spot the Governor’s Mansion and Lohman’s Landing State Historic Site. Lohman’s Landing was the original settlement, which became Missouri’s State Capital and the City of Jefferson.
A Gift for Generations to Come
The Bicentennial Bridge and Deborah Cooper Park would not have been possible without the vision and financial support provided by Mrs. Betty Jo (BJ) DeLong. Besides contributing over $3.2 million to the project overall, which enabled the momentum to continue fundraising and implementing the project, her commitment to see the vision to reach Adrian’s Island and the Missouri River was steadfast over a 50-year period from when the original concepts of riverfront access and development started in the Jefferson City community.
The generosity of Mrs. DeLong and many more turned a vision into reality, creating a connection to nature, environmental awareness, and a place for peace and serenity. The bridge and park will be icons for generations, celebrating Missouri and the river of Lewis and Clark.
Continued donations will assist in capital improvements to the Bicentennial Bridge and Deborah Cooper Park on Adrian’s Island.
Bicentennial Bridge Paver Campaign
Personalized pavers at Deborah Cooper Park on Adrian’s Island are available for purchase. Fill out the Bicentennial Bridge Paver Form with your inscription and paver size.
- Mail a completed Bicentennial Bridge Paver form with payment to Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Foundation, 1299 Lafayette St., Jefferson City, MO 65101.
- Donate online and email the Bicentennial Bridge Paver form to pstiles@jeffersoncitymo.gov
Questions? Contact Phil Stiles at pstiles@jeffersoncitymo.gov.
General Donations
Online donations are now accepted through the JC Parks Foundation. Donations may also be mailed to Jefferson City Parks and Recreation Foundation, 1299 Lafayette St., Jefferson City, MO 65101.
