Lake Havasu City's Freedom Bridge Project

Lake Havasu City's Freedom Bridge Project has introduced a fundraiser which will allow non-profit organizations from all over the country to benefit financially. The project is encouraging other organizations to jump on the fundraising bandwagon, while promising to give back a portion of the proceeds. All of this began when the desert community began making plans for a second bridge.

Lake Havasu City Arizona is known for being the home of the London Bridge. The famous British antique was relocated to the desert community, and officially opened in 1971. For the past thirty-seven years the import has been the sole roadway between the mainland and Lake Havasu City's island, site of the Nautical Inn, Lake Havasu Marina, and some housing developments.

Winter and summer visitors to the area are well aware of the fact that the bridge no longer provides adequate transportation to and from the island, and in some cases hinders emergency workers from obtaining necessary access to those in need. Because of this, Lake Havasu City is currently making plans to construct a second bridge onto the island.

During discussions of constructing a second bridge, the Freedom Bridge Project was organized. Their goal is to raise money to pay for any enhancements to the new structure. One way they plan to do this is to create a memorial walkway near the new overpass, and onto the island. The organization is currently selling memorial bricks online, at their website at http://www.havasufreedombridge.com.

It is an ambitious project, and those organizations who sell bricks can receive a portion of the revenue. Supporters of the project include Lake Havasu City Councilman, Brian Wedemeyer, who initially promoted the Freedom Bridge concept.

Lake Havasu City is familiar with the memorial brick idea. Already memorial plaques can be found up and down McCulloch Blvd, on the walkway near the channel, and even at the post office. Residents and non-residents can purchase these plaques to memorialize a loved one. This Freedom Bridge Project will expand on the memorial plaque concept, and give more people the opportunity to express themselves in a venue which could possibly be around for many years.

The Freedom Bridge Project is also focusing on patriotism. Gary Meyers, a representative of the group, has been making regular speaking engagements at various civic functions. Mr. Meyers reported that one goal of the project is to welcome the traveling Vietnam Memorial, in a possible visit to Lake Havasu City.