The original earth filled, concrete arch bridge carried Route 64/Main Street through the heart of St. Charles and was slated for replacement by IDOT. The City of St. Charles and IDOT agreed to explore alternative designs to the standard bridges built by IDOT.

Richard developed the overall bridge design theme and refined the aesthetic and functional detailing in the bridge.

The new, four-span structure is anchored by four overlooks constructed over tapered and stepped piers. The overlooks support four copper-roofed canopy structures that span the sidewalks on the bridge deck. These overlooks create space for pedestrians crossing the bridge and the ability to stand over the water and out of the pedestrian travelway.

The tapered pier design is reflective of the tower in the City’s Municipal Center and was repeated in the design of the canopy columns and railing support posts.

While the new bridge used standard precast concrete beams to support the structure, precast concrete arches were designed to reflect the design of the original bridge.

The resulting bridge structure is a unique IDOT structure and is reflective of two adjacent and highly significant architectural and historic landmarks: the Hotel Baker and the St. Charles Municipal Center.