Clark State Community College and Wright State University will celebrate continued joint efforts toward student success and accessibility with a dedication ceremony for a newly constructed pedestrian bridge, further connecting the higher learning institutions.

The pedestrian bridge will connect the Clark State Greene Center campus with the Wright State University campus, both located in Beavercreek, Ohio. The dedication ceremony will be held on Friday, August 28 at 2 p.m.

“This bridge demonstrates the commitment to collaboration in Greene County among our cities and educational institutions,” said Clark State President Dr. Jo Alice Blondin. “Most importantly, this bridge allows students to go between Wright State and Clark State's campuses safely.”  

Construction of the bridge began in July of 2014. The purpose of the bridge is to allow pedestrians, bicyclists and the physically impaired to safely cross I-675. “It will be a boon for bicycle commuters to Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Wright State and Clark State and to the office corridor, shopping, restaurants and hotels all without adding to the automotive congestion on local thoroughfares,” said Joe Jackson, vice president of business affairs for Clark State.

Jackson said Clark State has been involved in the project since 2007. The pedestrian bridge was funded with a federal funding grant of $2.2 million; the City of Beavercreek, Wright State and Clark State also provided funding.

Clark State and Wright State will also continue to collaborate on multiple articulation agreements – including business, social work, math, communication, sociology, registered nursing and more. “For example, a student interested in studying psychology at Wright State can complete their Associate of Science or Associate of Arts degree at Clark State, then complete an additional 15-20 transferable hours at Clark State as well,” said Amy Sues, director of student success and completion. Eligible students are then able to complete their bachelor’s degree at Wright State.