CROSSING THE BRIDGE — Wheeling Jesuit students Tyler Stewart, left, and Michael Duez run across the footbridge that spans Wheeling Creek near Wheeling Jesuit University on Monday afternoon.- Scott McCloskey

WHEELING — It’s been decades since trolley cars ambled across the once-wider and stronger Pleasanton/Lennox foot bridge that connects Locust Avenue to Currie Drive at the entrance to Wheeling Jesuit University.

Now, not even 5 feet wide, the footbridge is crumbling as weather and age have taken a toll on the span used by countless walkers, joggers, bike riders and parents pushing baby strollers. The bridge has served as a shortcut to the Pleasanton ballfield and playground. Students from St. Michael Parish School often used the route to reach the ballfield for football practice. More recently, fans of Wheeling Central walked across the footbridge to access the stadium at the university, now serving as home field for the Maroon Knights.

Wheeling officials on Monday announced the walking bridge will close on Friday. The future of the span or a replacement bridge remains in the hands of Wheeling Council.

A release from the city stated, “After two engineers examined the bridge, officials learned that the structure is in very poor condition and needs to be closed. The current span cannot be repaired and must be replaced; however, there is no imminent danger of the bridge collapsing.

“The city engineering division is exploring material and cost options for replacing the bridge. Ultimately, City Council will review cost estimates for the bridge replacement. The bridge spans the Ward 4/Ward 5 boundary.”

City officials suggest using the Washington Avenue Bridge to gain access by foot to either neighborhood.

Vice Mayor Chad Thalman, who represents the 1st Ward, said the replacement cost “is likely in the six-figure range.”

“There is some deterioration in numerous places, including in the steel beams. Two engineering firms looked at it and while it’s not in immediate danger of collapse, the city was advised to close the bridge. City staff is looking into various options to replace the bridge.”

The bridge has received some upgrades over the years, including chain link fencing. It has been the target of graffiti artists and vandalism that is visible today.

The bridge has served generations of WJU students who travel from the campus to nearby stores, restaurants and pubs on the Edgwood side of the pathway across Wheeling Creek.

Kelly Klubert, director of conference services and university communications at WJU, said Monday, “Representatives from Wheeling Jesuit will be meeting with city officials in December to discuss this issue, but at this time, we do not have a stance on the closing of the foot bridge.”