In an era of government cost-cutting, public-works projects that display both civic-mindedness and artistic value are rare. But the 200-foot span of galvanized steel lofted above the east entrance to Chanhassen is both pragmatic and pretty. With a price tag of $850,000, construction of the pedestrian bridge was not without controversy. But the structure not only links the city's southern residential neighborhoods to its northern downtown district, it serves as a welcoming gateway to yet another indistinguishable suburb. As the tendrils of flowering honeysuckle work their way into the gridlike design over the next few years, we're sure that any grumbling about ill-spent taxpayer dollars will be eclipsed by a growing sense of civic pride.