Heidelberg University has opened a new pedestrian bridge connecting its campus to athletic facilities and recreational trails, providing a more convenient route for students and residents traveling between Frann’s Fieldhouse and Peaceful Valley.
The Farmen Footbridge was formally dedicated October 24 during the university’s Homecoming celebration. The project was funded by Heidelberg alumni Ray and Sharon Farmen, graduates of the classes of 1976 and 1975, respectively.
The bridge links the area around Frann’s Fieldhouse with Peaceful Valley, where Heidelberg’s baseball and softball facilities are located, and improves access to Hidden Valley, the university’s soccer field, and the Rock Creek Trail. Heidelberg says the crossing is available to students, alumni, area residents and other visitors.
The project is among the final additions associated with Frann’s Fieldhouse, the university’s 110,000-square-foot athletics, academics and recreation facility that was dedicated in October 2025.
Alumni gift made the project possible
The bridge originated from a commitment made during Heidelberg’s Alumni Weekend in 2025. After hearing university President Rob Huntington describe future campus improvements, the Farmens offered to fund the project.
At the dedication, Heidelberg student Leah Arnett, a member of the university’s softball team, described how the new crossing would improve everyday travel between campus facilities. Its usefulness extends to practices, games, athletic training and public access to the surrounding trails.
University leaders, alumni and local officials attended the October 24 ceremony. The Farmens participated in a ceremonial walk across the bridge accompanied by the Heidelberg Marching Band, according to the university’s account of the dedication.
The bridge also creates a more direct connection between the university’s recreational facilities and Tiffin’s public trail network, allowing residents to reach the Peaceful Valley area from the fieldhouse side of campus.
