The Memorial Swinging Bridge project in Winamac will receive a matching $30,000 funding boost thanks to generous contributions in a crowdfunding campaign through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority.
The campaign began July 15 with the goal of raising $30,000 to be matched the same amount through the IHCDA by September 15 to go toward illuminating the Memorial Swinging Bridge. According to Fund Development Chair Kathi Thompson, the matching gift challenge was met within just a few days.
The project will have a total of $60,000 in additional funding through this campaign.
However, contributions toward the project to reach the overall goal are still being taken through the duration of the crowdfunding campaign. Community members can still make contributions to fully fund the project as the project is within 10 percent of the $300,000 cost of the project.
Contributions can be made to the challenge site here. Donations may also be sent via mail to Memorial Swinging Bridge Project, P.O. Box 14, Winamac, IN 46996.
Funds from this campaign will be used to add thousands of waterproof LED lights to the suspender cables, towers and under the walkway of Memorial Bridge, along with a computer system to control the timing and colors of the lights.
The Memorial Swinging Bridge is one of 12 suspension bridges in the state of Indiana, the third oldest that remains in use, and the only one in national and international databases to cross the Tippecanoe River. In 1923, the Memorial Swinging Bridge was dedicated to soldiers and sailors from Pulaski County.
A 100-year celebration is planned for 2023.
