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The new bridge was designed by Coombe-Bloxdorf, P.C. of Springfield, Illinois. Mr. Fred Coombe was the project engineer.The general contractor was Illinois Excavators, Inc. of Ruma, Illinois.Mr. Larry Dunn was the project manager.The bridge was officially opened to traffic on May 6, 2004.; The previous bridge over Whispering Willow Lake was constructed around 1940.Over the last 10 years, IDNR Division of Engineering has documented severe deterioration of the substructure, particularly near the water's surface. In addition, erosion was occurring at both ends of the bridge.Regular site visitors knew to drive slowly over the old bridge to minimize the bump at each end.
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Located within sight of St. Louis Gateway Arch, Frank Holten is an urban site almost entirely surrounded by East St. Louis. The 1,080-acre park features an 18-hole golf course and facilities for fishing, picnicking, and other outdoor recreational activities.
The park was established in 1964 and named Grand Marais. On May 1, 1967, the name was changed to Frank Holten, in honor of the late distinguished legislator from East St. Louis. First elected in 1916, Holten served 48 years in the Illinois General Assembly. He died in December, 1966 at the age of 98.
In addition to the lakes and facilities located at Frank Holten, the park features a diversity of plant and animal life. Shade and decorative trees include Scotch pine, maple, oak, poplar, sycamore, ginko, tulip, red bud, sweet gum, and wild cherry. Water lily, lilac, arrowhead, bridal wreath, honeysuckle bush, and mock orange are some of the blossoming flowers and bushes. Many common wildlife species may be viewed in the park, such as rabbit, squirrel, raccoon, fox, groundhog, muskrat, and mink.
Frank Holten has one of the largest day use areas in the surrounding area. The park area consists of picnic shelters, barbecue pits, sanitation facilities, and drinking fountains. The facility can accommodate up to 2,000 patrons per day with adequate parking for all.
A variety of refreshments are offered, including sandwiches, snack items, and soft drinks. The stand is located in the golf clubhouse.
Frank Holten has two lakes - Whispering Willow Lake and Grand Marais Lake - with a combined water surface of 208 acres and five miles of shoreline. Wispering Willow Lake was rehabilitated in 1983 and stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. Boat and bank fishing is allowed, but boat anglers must use trolling motors or motors no large than 10 horsepower. Daily creel and length in limits are in effect for some sport species. Anglers are advised to check with the site superintendent for any special regulations before fishing.
There are no boat rentals at Frank Holten. Boat launch ramps are available on Wispering Willow and Grand Marais lakes.
Frank Holten has an 18-hole golf course, named Grand Marais. The park also offers a combined football-soccer field, a cross-country track, basketball, and baseball diamonds.
- While groups of 25 or more are welcome and encouraged to use the park's facilities, they are required to register in advance with the site office to avoid crowding or scheduling conflicts.
- At least one responsible adult must accompany each group of 15 minors.
- Pets must be kept on leashes at all times.
- Actions by nature can result in closed roads and other facilities. Please call ahead to the park office before you make your trip.
- We hope you enjoy your stay. Remember, take only memories, leave only footprints.
- For more information on tourism in Illinois, call the Illinois Department of Economic Opportunity, Bureau of Tourism at 1-800-2 Connect.
- Telecommunication Device for Deaf and Hearing Impaired Natural Resources Information (217) 782-9175 for TDD only Relay Number 800-526-0844.
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