(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The City of Colorado Springs marked another milestone on Thursday, Nov. 14 as it celebrated the completion of the eastbound portion of the Circle Drive Bridges Project. The project, which seeks to improve the safety and functionality of Circle, will eventually replace all four structures that are over 50 years old. Since the design phase of the project, the community has been heavily involved including those from the Harrison High School Student Ambassador Program. Courtesy: FOX21 News Photojournalist Matthew Putnam Construction officially began in the fall of 2023 and the project includes three phases. On Thursday, the City celebrated the completion of 'Phase 1' and the newly constructed eastbound bridges, which are expected to open soon. "Progress is truly a beautiful thing," said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. "The bridges are critical connectors of our City, supporting the daily lives of residents, businesses and travelers alike." Mayor Yemi said the project will not only replace dated infrastructure but will provide additional safety for students getting to school or those walking to work. "With much wider sidewalks, we are making our community safer," the mayor said. "Gone are the days of people walking across the bridge on the shoulder creating dangerous situations for both people and cars." The project also seeks to improve traffic congestion on Circle and will provide critical access to essential services for those who live and work in southeast Colorado Springs. After the Mayor's comments, the Harrison High School marching band and cheer squad members walked across the new eastbound bridge to celebrate the milestone. For a closer look at what Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the project will entail, visit coloradosprings.gov/CircleDrBridges.