Opened in July 1931, Wichita's southern gateway is reportedly the longest remaining "Rainbow Bridges" of James Barney Marsh. The 800-foot span of reinforced concrete consists of eight tied arches and is nationally acknowledged and locally revered for its aesthetic and historical significance. Named after John Mack of Newton, "the father of good Kansas roads," Mack was a member of the Kansas State Highway Commission. In 1991 the bridge was in danger of being torn down through neglect, a community effort "Save the John Mack Bridge Committee" was created to save and restore the bridge to its former splendor. The effort succeed and in 1992 the bridge was placed on the NRHP and funds were allocated for its restoration.