Since their charter in 1886 Milwaukee’s Ironworkers Local 8 has played a vital role in the city’s growth. Notable among these early contributions is the labor and ingenuity ironworkers brought to building the bridges and viaducts that allowed Milwaukee to overcome the rivers, valleys, and bluffs surrounding the new city. Many of these challenges were met by bridges, but to better connect crossings over changes in terrain eight key viaduct sites were established between 1878 and 1933. The eighth, the North Holton Street Viaduct, was completed in 1926 linking the top of the Milwaukee River bluffs to Brady Street allowing expansion north of the city. 

Named after Milwaukee business man, Edward Holton, this viaduct is an excellent example of Milwaukee’s commitment to expansion, modernization and advancing the city’s quality of life. Measuring 955.5 feet in total length and 60 feet wide the structure has 15 metal bents and concrete abutments supporting its 15 spans. It has been repaired, refurbished and repurposed multiple times to fit the needs of the community. Originally built with the center portion of the span over the Milwaukee River operating as a bascule bridge it was re-decked in 1987 to remove that function as large vessel traffic diminished on the river. Still, the main deck is only part of the success story.  

What truly makes the North Holton Street Viaduct an award-winning, civic treasure is the innovative marsupial bridge built under the main deck in 2005. Hailed as a “green highway” this second deck connects Milwaukee’s extensive bike trail giving bikers and pedestrians safe and convenient passage. Additionally, two plazas were built at either end of the structure which reversed the urban decay of the 1970’s increasing public safety and producing vibrant community gathering places. 

From day one, ironworkers made all this happen. Joining in this long history, MKE Iron Erectors, Inc. is so proud to execute the current structural rehabilitation of this dynamic structure. Exceeding the initial assessments of deterioration, MKE Iron Foreman Aaron Uebele, points out that additional deterioration was uncovered not only requiring increased scope, but field-supplied solutions to keep the project moving forward. The fact our team was working over water required extra safety precautions and planning barging in cranes while not effecting river traffic. All told, 159,681 pounds of steel was replaced with zero safety incidents: on time and on budget. 

Today, thanks to Milwaukee’s dedication to growth, and the skills of ironworkers, the North Holton Street Viaduct carries 10,200 cars daily and provides safe passage for bike and pedestrian traffic. The viaduct has stimulated growth, and demonstrated how innovation and labor keep communities moving forward.