It’s been less than five years since the Highway 4 overpass bridge in Jefferson was built and now it will get a new name.

A proposal was made by Jefferson American Legion Post 11 Commander Jim Andrew and Jefferson VFW Post Number 9599 Commander Don Ihnken to the Iowa Department of Transportation to name the bridge: “Greene County Veterans and First Responders Memorial Bridge.” The DOT approved their proposal earlier this week. Andrew describes his reaction when he found out their project had been approved.

“When we received word that it was approved, why it gives all of us a reason to celebrate. And I hope every veteran when he sees that (sign) feels good that bridge is dedicated to not only the departed veterans, but those that are still with us.”

Andrew explains why they wanted to not only honor all veterans in the County, but also include the first responders.

“That bridge was originally proposed because ambulances, police, fire trucks and everything were worried about being able to get to a fire or to the hospital on one side of the tracks or the other and that was a major reason for that bridge.”

The cost for two brown signs with white lettering and installing one sign on each side of the bridge is $420. Both the Greene County Board of Supervisors and the City of Jefferson are discussing paying for the project.