A very poorly installed bridge is finally going to be replaced.
The city council unanimously approved an intergovernmental bridge replacement agreement between the city and Henry County, during the city council meeting on July 2 at the municipal building in Clinton.
Residents near the bridge are very glad to have the long awaited project begun.
“It will be so nice to have a smooth road,” said longtime resident Amber McClure. “We will not miss those big bumps.”
The bridge was installed with huge rises on each approach to the bridge.
“I hear cars speeding toward and hitting those big humps,” McClure said. “It is very loud when they hit them.”
One home was crashed into by a speeding vehicle that lost control coming over the large bumps.
“It was about a year ago,” McClure said. “It was on the east side of the creek.”
The council brought up the business at the end of their meeting.
“For new business we have resolution 15-2024,” said Mayor Carla Moberly. “It is for the county to replace the bridge on Augusta Street.”
Councilmen were well aware of the coming resolution, and ready to take action.
“I motion we approve the resolution,” said Ward 3 Councilman Cameron Jackson.
“I second the motion,” said Ward 4 Councilman Gene Henry.
The mayor asked if there was further discussion, and City Administrator Christi Maggi brought up several pertinent details.
“The county bridge crew will do the construction,” said Maggi. “They will use (follow) MODOT standards.”
The administrator previously discussed the design details with Street Superintendent T.J. Williams and Henry County Road & Bridge Superintendent Dennis Bowers.
“T.J. is happy with how the county will design the (new) bridge,” Maggi said. “There will be no cost to the city.”
Previously, the county had submitted a design that would result in the city paying a portion of the replacement cost.
“Last time it (cost) was to high,” Maggi said. “This time it is alright.”
City Attorney Doug Harris, had also worked with the parties on the details.
“I made some additions (legal details),” said Harris. “I also approve the current proposal.”
With a unanimous vote, the city approved the long needed bridge project.
According to the proposal, Henry County Road & Bridge crews will make the approaches from 100 feet on both sides of the bridge. They will further remove trees, grind stumps and complete all dirt and drainage work necessary for the complete and professional installation of the new bridge crossing.
The city council will tentatively meet again at 6 p.m. on July 16, at the municipal building in Clinton.
