COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The old U.S. 12 bridge on the west side of Coldwater has been closed due to safety concerns.
The decision to close the bridge which was built in 1920 was made after the bridge recently underwent an inspection from FTCH in Lansing.
After looking at the truss and performing steel thickness measurements from the topside, it was determined that many of the primary elements displayed extreme section loss.
According to statement released by the city late Friday afternoon, inspectors found the bridge to be an extreme hazard for pedestrian traffic and recommended taking it out of service immediately.
The Coldwater Department of Municipal Services has blocked off and restricted all pedestrian access to the structure.
City Manager Keith Baker said, “Time has taken its toll on the structure. We understand there is a nostalgic sentiment and rich history behind the bridge, and while closing it down wasn’t easy, due to its current condition it is necessary.”
The City is reminding pedestrians that the warning and closing signs are extremely important and should not be ignored. Officials also recommend to boaters that they use caution when traveling under the bridge and they may do so at their own risk.
