Save the Willimantic Footbridge – Rebuild a Historic Lifeline of Our Town

The Willimantic Footbridge—beloved by generations, photographed by visitors, and crossed daily by students, families, and neighbors—has been closed indefinitely due to serious structural damage that makes it unsafe for public use.

Following a comprehensive inspection by professional engineers from AI Engineers, it was determined that the bridge’s condition poses an imminent risk of failure. As a result, this vital pedestrian link between downtown Willimantic and Jillson Square has been shut down, severing one of the most important and symbolic connections in the Town of Windham.

Built in 1906 and spanning multiple rail lines and a river, the Willimantic Footbridge is more than a means of getting from one place to another. It is one of the few remaining footbridges of its kind in the United States—an architectural and civic treasure that tells the story of our industrious past and our community’s enduring spirit.

Its closure is a blow to our local economy, our downtown vitality, and our sense of place. Events at the Shaboo Stage and festivals in Jillson Square are now harder to access. Students walking to school, seniors heading to the library, families enjoying Lauter Park, and residents supporting downtown businesses—all are impacted.

We are launching this fundraising campaign to support:

Emergency stabilization efforts to protect the structure during planning.

Feasibility and design studies to explore restoration, reconstruction, or potential replacement—including prefabricated bridge options.

Community engagement to ensure public input is at the center of our planning.

Long-term restoration or replacement so that this landmark can serve future generations.

Whether you grew up crossing the bridge, came to town for the Boom Box Parade, or simply believe in preserving places that matter, your support can help bring this bridge back to life.

Please give what you can, share this page widely, and be part of a community effort to restore a piece of Windham’s heart.

Together, we can reconnect our town—safely, beautifully, and proudly.

With gratitude,

The Town of Windham