As residents, bikers, pedestrians, runners, fitness groups, and bike commuters hailing from various West End neighborhoods like Rice Military, West End, and Magnolia Grove, we are troubled by the decay of the Jackson Hill Pedestrian & Bike Bridge #1 in Cleveland Park. This vital link, given to us in 1986 by philanthropist Tom Fatjo Jr., is rusting away at a fast pace. It fails to meet ADA standards, and is dangerous for our neighbors in wheelchairs to get to. The bridge's width is too narrow to permit safe passage for pedestrians, dogs, and cyclists. The chain link cage and cement are deteriorating in several places, posing safety hazards. This bridge is more than a path; it is our main access to Buffalo Bayou Park, Downtown, the Johnny Steele Dog Park, and  Montrose. We ask that you conduct a traffic study to affirm what we know - the bridge is super busy for pedestrians and bikers and heavily used every day.   

We ask that the Memorial Heights Redevelopment Authority/ TIRZ5  prioritize  and begin work to replace this forty-year-old structure which is quickly becoming obsolete. By doing so, they will reaffirm their commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all residents in our neighborhoods. Help us reclaim this vital community asset and ensure it continues to serve future generations of Houstonians. As key stakeholders for the new bridge we hope that input from current bridge users is welcomed to influence the features, design, and architecture of a new bridge. 

We ask that SN22, civic clubs, businesses, and nonprofits in the area help  by submitting a letter of support to the Memorial Heights Redevelopment Authority/Tirz5.  We urge you to sign this petition and join us in our mission to prompt TIRZ5 to to commence the  renovation of the vintage Jackson Hill Pedestrian & Bike Bridge #1 in Cleveland Park.  For additional information, the history, photos, and more go to

https://friendsofclevelandpark.net/bridge.  Thank you for your advocacy and support of this important project.