Athens’ Murmur Trestle hosts an Engineering and Public Works Roadshow stop

Athens, Georgia–The Engineering and Public Works Roadshow made a memorable stop in Athens, Georgia, celebrating the restoration of one of the state’s most culturally and historically significant infrastructure landmarks—the Murmur Trestle. The event was livestreamed and can be replayed here.

Now a treasured part of Athens’ Firefly Trail, the Murmur Trestle first captured national attention in 1983 when it appeared on the back cover of R.E.M.’s debut album, Murmur. This year marks the 42nd anniversary of that iconic album and the 45th anniversary of R.E.M.’s first live performance, making this Roadshow stop especially meaningful for both the local community and fans of music history.

“There are many new bridges being built that inspire and help us get where we want to go. The new Murmur Trestle Bridge does this and more,” said Past American Public Works Association President Stan Brown, the former public works director for Athens-Clarke County, GA. “It’s an emotional connection to a great alternative rock band, and it delivers an historical connection to a time when the railroad was a vital commercial link for downtown Athens.”

Thanks to the vision and work of engineers, planners, and public works professionals, the trestle has been carefully restored to enhance safety and longevity while preserving its historic character. This thoughtful rehabilitation exemplifies how tradition and innovation can work hand-in-hand to serve communities—now and for generations to come.