Over the past few weeks, new pedestrian bridges have been installed over the interstate ramps on the north side of Hickman Road in Urbandale, marking an important improvement to the city’s growing trail network.

During installation, each ramp was briefly closed to traffic for about 30 minutes while cranes carefully lifted the bridge sections into place and set them over the interstate ramps.

Once complete, the new trail crossing will provide a safe, separated route for bicyclists and pedestrians, allowing trail users to cross the busy interstate interchange without interacting with ramp traffic.

The bridges are part of the City of Urbandale’s larger trail system, which continues to expand connections between neighborhoods, parks, and the regional trail network across the Des Moines metro. Improving crossings at major roadways like Hickman Road helps remove barriers that have historically made certain sections of the trail system difficult or unsafe to navigate.

Beyond improving safety and connectivity, the new structures also add a striking visual feature to the corridor - something trail users and motorists alike will notice as they travel through the area.

As communities across Central Iowa continue investing in trail infrastructure, projects like this highlight how thoughtful design can make the region’s trail network safer, more connected, and more accessible for everyone who rides or walks.