RIVER FALLS – The iconic Swinging Bridge in River Falls celebrated its 100^th anniversary Saturday at Glen Park with a presentation on its history, photos of the bridge throughout the years collected from community members, root beer from Swinging Bridge Brewing Company and cake.

The city’s Historic Preservation Commission invited attendees to meet them prior to the party at Heritage Park near City Hall for the Bridges Historic Interpretive Sign Dedication.

The Swinging Bridge connects the north end of Glen Park to Cascade Avenue. The Minneapolis Bridge Company built the suspension bridge across the South Fork of the Kinnickinnic River for $4,800 (about $90,000 in 2026 money). The River Falls Improvement League helped raise funds for its construction.

The bridge has played a role in many people’s lives as a popular destination for graduation and wedding photos, proposals, hikes and more. It received recognition in February 2018 when it was added to the State Registry of Historic Places; the National Register of Historic Places added the bridge to its roster in July 2018.

According to the Historic Preservation Commission, the bridge is 190 feet long and features cable suspension supports 44 feet above the river strung between the two arched concrete abutments. The walkway is 8 feet wide and slightly wobbles or “swings” as people walk across. Many schoolchildren have delighted in jumping up and down on the Swinging Bridge. 

The last renovations to the centenarian took place in 1985-86. The city will soon begin design work for renovations, with construction to being in 2027. Improvements will include timber and suspension cable replacement, making this grand lady stable for years to come.

Members of the Historic Preservation Commission include Michael Page, city council representative; Casie Radford, Jayne Hoffman, Morgan Paavola, Dan Geister, Pam Friede, Mark Anderson and Julie Huebel.