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Veterans Memorial Bridge Project

We continue to promote donations to help us complete this exciting project. Funds are still needed for Phases 3 and 4. Donations can be made payable to the Fort Dodge Community Foundation – Veterans Bridge Project. Checks can be mailed to the Fort Dodge Community Foundation, 24 North 9th Street  Suite B, Fort Dodge, IA  50501.  Donations can also be made on online by clicking on the DONATE button below.

History of the Veterans Bridge

Mayor Albert Habhab strongly advocated for a bridge on 1st Avenue South that would extend over the railroad tracks and serve as a gateway bridge connecting downtown Fort Dodge with the new Crossroads Mall area on the east side of town. The need for this bridge was relieve traffic backups in Fort Dodge that were caused by railroad trains that often blocked traffic on the crossings at 5th Avenue South and on 4th Avenue North. The bridge was opened in 1969 and was named Veterans Memorial Bridge to honor all veterans from Fort Dodge and Webster County who honorably served their country.

About the Project

Phase 1

Veterans Memorial Bridge in Fort Dodge has undergone stunning enhancements, starting with eye-catching features on the bridge that includes vibrantly lighted emblems resembling folded flags and Service branch medallions. Each one of the fifteen light poles on Veterans Bridge displays an emblem that is visible from both directions. These emblems, representing the six branches of the Armed Services, are lighted and they shine brightly in the evening sky.

Phase 2

Phase 2 includes attractive entry signs on the east and west ends of the bridge welcoming travelers crossing the bridge and identifying the bridge as the – Albert Habhab Veterans Memorial Bridge. Signage on both ends of the bridge will be completed this spring.

Phase 3

Phase 3 will involve illuminating the light poles on both sides of the bridge with attractive red, white and blue lighting. In the evening, the light poles will illuminate the bridge with a brilliant red, white and blue landscape and create a beautiful gateway connecting the east and west sectors of our community. The spectacular colorful lighting will light up the evening sky drawing attention to the appreciation and gratitude we all have for our veterans. Phase 3 will be completed this spring.

Phase 4

Phase 4 will include the Veterans Plaza situated in a beautifully landscaped greenspace located on the southeast corner of the bridge. The Plaza will include a curved concrete wall for seating and reflection. Six columns commemorating the six branches of the Armed Forces will be displayed. An attractive flagpole will accentuate the Plaza.  A donor wall recognizing the businesses and individuals who generously contributed to make this project a reality will also be featured in the Plaza. Veterans Plaza will be a space for veterans, their families and the public to enjoy and reflect on the patriotism of our veterans and the selfless service they gave to our country. Additional fundraising is taking place to bring this plaza to fruition with the hope that it will be completed this summer or early fall.

Plaza Space Rendering

Donation

Sponsorship Tiers:

CONTRIBUTOR: Donate any amount up to $999

BRANCH OF MILITARY LIGHT POLE SPONSORSHIP: $2500

  • 1-STAR SPONSORSHIP: $1,000 or more
  • 2-STAR SPONSORSHIP: $5,000 or more
  • 3-STAR SPONSORSHIP: $10,000 or more
  • 4-STAR SPONSORSHIP: $15,000 or more
  • 5-STAR SPONSORSHIP: $25,000 or more
  • Medal of Honor Sponsorship: $50,000 or more

Donations of $250 or more come with a special token of appreciation—a commemorative coin. To honor our high-tier sponsors (1-Star and above), we will prominently display their names as an integral part of our initiative..