Vilas Hall and the pedestrian bridge attached to it are shown during a building lighting project as part of the campus’s Illuminate: Year of the Arts in 2010. Photo: Andrew Taylor

Demolition of the pedestrian bridge over University Avenue between the George L. Mosse Humanities Building and Vilas Hall is scheduled to begin Monday, Aug. 10, and continue throughout the week.

The bridge is being taken down due to its deterioration and a decline in use, especially after a traffic signal was installed for pedestrians at East Campus Mall a few years ago. The cost of replacing the structure is prohibitive given the fact that fewer people now use it.

University Avenue between Park and Frances streets is planned to be closed completely from 8 p.m. Wednesday to 6 a.m. Thursday. During that time, traffic will be detoured by taking a left turn onto Frances and then to Dayton Street. Motorists should expect multiple lane closures throughout the week. Pedestrians and bicyclists will also experience various detours as the project proceeds. Work is scheduled to conclude Monday, Aug. 17, depending upon weather.