Updated Sept. 16, 2025

Project Update
The city was awarded an additional $464,200 in grant funding from the federal Local Bridge Program on September 11, 2025, to cover increased construction costs based on the latest estimate. Due to the timing of receiving this additional funding, along with not being able to perform the maintenance activities during the late fall and winter months, the project is planned for bidding in March 2026. A contractor will likely begin work by late Spring of 2026.
 
In July 2023, David Evans and Associates was contracted to provide professional engineering design services to identify how to specifically repair and rehabilitate the bridges. One set of plans and specifications will be created for all the bridges with the intention of awarding a single construction contract. Bundling the bridge work is more cost effective due to similar maintenance needs on each bridge.

What is this project going to accomplish?
The city performs bi-annual inspections of public bridges that span over 20 feet to assess overall condition and track maintenance issues. This information is stored in the National Bridge Inventory (NBI) database compiled by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). There are many aging bridges citywide that develop wear and tear over the years from normal daily use and natural elements. Performing maintenance on these bridges helps to preserve the structural soundness and safety and extend the service life for public use.

Repairs to bridge structures include the deck, posts, rails, abutments, girders, soffits, beams, and sidewalks depending on the maintenance needs of each bridge. There are nine bridges included in this effort:

• Myra Road
• 2nd Avenue
• Main Street
• Colville Street
• Otis Street
• Merriam Street
• Clinton Street
• Wilbur Avenue
• Tausick Way (aka Three Mile Road)

Project Schedule
• Design – Completed Spring 2025
• Construction – Spring 2026

How will this project be funded?
The total project cost is estimated at $2.04 million. It is funded by a federal Local Bridge Program grant in the amount of $2,005,600. The remaining cost will be covered with Real Estate & Excise Tax (REET) funds.