In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the impending closure of a key county bridge, which is set to begin in March 2024 and last approximately one month. The closure is necessary to address critical structural issues, including the replacement of 11 pressure plates on the bridge. Initially, it was believed that this work could be completed without closing the bridge, but new assessments indicate that a full closure is unavoidable.
During this period, the only alternative for crossing will be the toll bridge, which currently has a weight limit of 7.5 tons. This restriction poses significant challenges, as it cannot accommodate emergency vehicles, waste trucks, or other heavy transport, raising concerns about community safety and accessibility during the closure.
Officials acknowledged the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for upgrades to ensure reliable infrastructure. They committed to keeping residents informed as more details become available regarding the timeline and implications of the bridge work.
Additionally, discussions touched on a potential ballot proposal that, if approved in November, would allow the township to initiate bonding processes to finance the purchase and engineering work for the toll bridge. This proposal aims to enhance the township's infrastructure capabilities in light of the upcoming challenges posed by the county bridge closure.