Macomb, IL – Macomb will repair two small bridges in the southeast part of town instead of permanently closing them.
The bridges are on Franklin Street and on Lincoln Drive. The former has been closed for around one year. The latter remains open but is in bad shape.
Alderman At Large Chris Senn says the city is long overdue in making decisions on the projects. He says it's clear the community wants to preserve the integrity of its neighborhoods by maintaining these neighborhood bridges.
The price tag could be close to $200,000 by the time both are repaired. Aldermen say they might sell bonds to pay for the work. Senn says it would be money well invested in the neighborhoods.
Additional information:
*Numerous people addressed aldermen about the bridges during Tuesday evening's Committee of the Whole meeting. You can listen to their comments and the city council's discussion of the projects by clicking on the audio button.
*The city says the Franklin Street bridge continues to deteriorate and cannot remain in its present status indefinitely. The city says it's a matter of public safety.
*The Lincoln Drive bridge would have to be removed and replace with a new, wider bridge. At minimum it should be 26 feet wide. Right now, it's about half that width. Given the bridge's condition, its repairs are also considered a matter of public safety.