Tooley Creek is the primary watershed basin that feeds Lake Quivira, originating near SM Parkway, HyVee and Broken Arrow School and includes the Lakeview Estates and Hidden Woods neighborhoods. The resulting creek runs nearly all year, emptying into the east silt pond. The creek provides a formidable stream to ford when using the Lake Quivira Trails, thus the bridge.

The existing bridge crossing the creek was constructed in the ‘80s and is well past its useful life. The Natural Resources Committee will be replacing the bridge in the spring of 2025. The new bridge design was inspired by numerous bridges observed in other natural settings and features an “outrigger” rail design for added lateral rail support. Lumber for the bridge is custom milled dimensional white oak. Fastners will be heavy duty 5/8 inch galvanized thru bolts and lag screws for long lasting weather resistance. Support for the free span structure is increased from the current two pole design to a heavier three pole design.

The new structure has been professionally designed and engineered. Construction is expected to begin in late March and will include removing the old structure, setting the new poles, then carefully constructing the new decking and railing. Construction will be completed by volunteers of the Natural Resources Committee. Funding for the project, which is expected to cost approximately $18,000, is provided by Quivira, Inc. (50%), the Lake Quivira Foundation (25%) and NRC funds (25%), including proceeds from the Duck Derby fundraiser last fall.

While the bridge is under construction access across the creek will be limited to crossing at any low water point you may be able to find and bushwhacking. Please do not access the bridge while it’s under construction. Our plan is to open the new bridge prior to Memorial Day.

If you have questions or are looking to get involved, please reach out to wzoellner@pm.me.