Mayor Tim Grama and Public Works Director Larry Searls said inspections revealed advanced deterioration of the structure and that the bridge's closure earlier this year was necessary for public safety reasons. Council approved a demolition and construction contract with Z Contractors, Inc. and a civil engineering services contract with Fishbeck (maximum $1,475,405). Council members and staff have credited state and federal funds — a $10 million state allocation and more than $4 million in federal funds — that together are funding the project.
Searls said the demolition will be coordinated with the railroad line that runs under the bridge and that the project will span multiple construction seasons; Initial work is expected to begin within weeks of contract completion and the entire project is likely to take more than a single construction season. Council members asked about emergency monitoring; The administration said grants and contingencies would be tracked and staff would return to council if costs reach contingency limits.
Council members emphasized the project's long-term purpose of ensuring public safety after years of deferred maintenance and said they would share construction plans with residents.