Menifee city officials and Congressman Ken Calvert participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Freedom Bridge on Bradley Road.
City officials, community members and Congressman Ken Calvert gathered Tuesday, Oct. 13, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of the Freedom Bridge on Bradley Road, a project more than 13 years in the making.
The 365-foot bridge, which opened to traffic Oct. 1, provides a connection between northern and southern Menifee over Salt Creek, where flooding previously forced road closures and detours. It includes one lane in each direction, a center turn lane and pedestrian access.
Mayor Ricky Estrada thanked current and former city leaders, staff and construction crews who helped bring the project to completion. He also recognized Calvert for helping secure $5 million in federal funding.
“That $5 million really pushed us over the edge to get this done,” Estrada said.
Mayor Pro Tem Bob Karwin said the project was formally added to the city’s capital improvement plan in 2013, although discussions began even earlier. He recognized former Councilman Greg August as one of its earliest supporters.
“It’s gone through three different generations of City Council to get us where we are today,” Karwin said.
Construction began in August 2025 and took approximately 14 months to complete. Karwin said the improvements were needed not only to address flooding but also to accommodate the city’s continued growth.
The bridge was named following a recommendation from the city’s Veterans and Military Families Advisory Committee to honor military service members, veterans and their families. Banners representing the military branches now line the roadway.
“I think symbolically, the name is perfect for our city,” Councilman Dan Temple said.
Calvert, who spoke during the ceremony, discussed the importance of bringing federal tax dollars back to local communities for infrastructure improvements. He also acknowledged the lengthy process involved in completing projects like the Freedom Bridge.
Public Works Director Nick Fidler recognized the contractors, engineers and utility providers involved in the project, which required relocating several utility lines while maintaining services during construction.
The ceremony concluded with a ceremonial drive across the bridge by the Sun City CruiZers, followed by a ribbon-cutting.
Congressman Ken Calvert speaks during the Freedom Bridge ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Members of the Sun City CruiZers drive their classic cars across the Freedom Bridge.
A large American flag hangs over Bradley Road during the Freedom Bridge ribbon-cutting celebration.
