Boaters: Share Your Input on Jackson Street Bridge Replacement
Coast Guard Seeking Mariner Input on Proposed Jackson Street Bridge Replacement
The U.S. Coast Guard is inviting input from boaters regarding the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s (WisDOT) proposed replacement of the Jackson Street Bridge (also known as the Oregon/Jackson Street Bridge) over Mile 56.22 of the Fox River in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. This project could significantly impact navigation on the Fox River, and the Coast Guard wants to ensure it meets the needs of boaters.
Virtual Meeting Details
Date: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Time: 12:00 p.m. Central / 1:00 p.m. Eastern
Format: Microsoft Teams (connection details provided below)
During this meeting, WisDOT representatives will discuss the navigational aspects of the proposed bridge and seek input from the boating community on whether the new design would meet reasonable navigation needs.
Project Background
WisDOT proposes replacing the existing movable bridge with a fixed bridge. The Coast Guard, which is responsible for authorizing bridge construction across navigable waters, needs to determine whether this change meets current and future navigational needs.
Current Bridge Clearance:
Closed Position: 11 feet vertical clearance
Open Position: Unlimited vertical clearance
Proposed Fixed Bridge Clearance:
At Edge of Navigation Channel: 26.99 feet vertical clearance
At Center of Navigation Channel: 27.50 feet vertical clearance
Since this change would eliminate the ability to open the bridge, it could impact taller vessels navigating the Fox River. The Coast Guard encourages both recreational and commercial boaters to share their thoughts on the proposed design.
Why This Matters to Boaters
The Fox River is a vital waterway for boaters in Oshkosh and beyond. If approved, a fixed bridge could permanently alter navigation routes. This is an opportunity for the boating community to voice concerns, ask questions, or propose alternative solutions before a final decision is made.
How to Participate
Boaters, business owners, and other stakeholders are encouraged to attend and share their input. The Coast Guard has not yet received a formal bridge permit application, and no final decision has been made.
Meeting Connection Details:
For additional details on the project, visit the WisDOT project page:
Wisconsin Department of Transportation Oregon/Jackson Street Bridge Study
Contact for Questions or Comments
If you have questions or would like to provide feedback outside of the meeting, you can contact:
Michael Odell Walker
Bridge Management Specialist
9th Coast Guard District (dpb)
Phone: (216) 902-6087
Email: (Insert email address here)
Make Your Voice Heard
This is a crucial moment for Oshkosh’s boating community to influence the future of river navigation. Whether you are a recreational boater, marina operator, or business owner affected by river access, your input can help shape the decision on this bridge replacement project.
Be sure to attend the meeting on April 10, 2025, and share your perspective!