Eugene's Autzen Canoe Canal Footbridge, Lot 8 close Feb. 16 for repairs

The pedestrian and cyclist footbridge that links Alton Baker Park and the Prefontaine Trail area to Autzen Stadium will close beginning Feb. 16 for resurfacing and repairs, city officials said. The closure will run through the end of March 2026, with some reports describing the work as roughly six weeks; nearby Lot 8 will be closed beginning Feb. 16 for enlargement and paving and will remain closed through August 2026.

City of Eugene Public Works described the project as intended to “create a smoother, more pleasant experience for people walking, biking and rolling.” The work is being carried out as part of ongoing University of Oregon athletic facility upgrades and includes improvements to a nearby parking lot that is currently gravel. University of Oregon associate vice president for community relations Matt Roberts said, “The refurbished footbridge and upgraded parking lot will enhance connectivity and accessibility for our community, ensuring these spaces remain welcoming and functional year-round.”

The closures will directly affect people who use the bridge to get to Oregon Ducks games, visitors to Alton Baker Park and Alton Baker dog park users who currently park in Lot 8. Officials warned that those who normally park in Lot 8 to access the dog park will be unable to do so while construction is occurring, and parking for the dog park will be redirected to other nearby lots.

The City of Eugene and reporting outlets list several alternatives and detours. Dog park users can use the parking lot at Alton Baker Park off Club Road or the city parking lot at the Science Center. Pedestrians and cyclists can use the bridge near the Cuthbert Amphitheater, soft-surface paths near the BMX park and Cuthbert Amphitheatre footbridges, or a paved route via MLK Boulevard and Alton Baker Park. A photo published by KLCC showed a closure sign posted on Feb. 9; the station captioned the image, “A sign announcing the Autzen Canoe Canal Footbridge's closure sits in front of the bridge on Monday, Feb. 9, 2026.”

City of Eugene Public Works issued the press release picked up by local media outlets. Officials and project partners have not published a specific calendar day in March for the footbridge reopening or a precise reopening day in August for Lot 8; current public notices give month-long windows rather than exact dates. Officials advise users to check the City of Eugene traffic and construction information page and follow Eugene Transportation on social media for updates.

For regular trail users and stadium attendees, the work should yield a smoother crossing and more reliable year-round parking once complete, but expect altered routes and reduced parking options through the spring and into summer. Monitor official city updates for confirmation of final reopening dates and any changes to detours or lot access.