The Second Street Bridge, or as it is affectionately known, the Old Iron Bridge, is an historic landmark. That is why the City of Allegan is currently investing in the construction project to extend the longevity of the gateway that enters Downtown Allegan for generations to come.
The Second Street Bridge Reconstruction Project will result new bridge decking with reenforced beams, new sidewalk including ADA upgrades, an east-facing overlook down the Kalamazoo River, and a one-way north-bound entrance into Downtown Allegan from Marshall Street with new pavement, grading, curb, gutter, and storm sewer improvements.
The bridge has been a one-way entrance before. The change now stops left-turning traffic onto Marshall Street, deemed a dangerous turn by the Allegan City Police Department and the Michigan Department of Transportation, makes a safer and accessible pedestrian walk along Marshall Street, and decreases the wear and tear that comes with back and forth traffic, therefore extending the life of the iconic bridge.
The City of Allegan contracted with local company Milbocker & Sons, Inc.. to complete the work. A grant from MDOT's Small Urban Program in the amount of $375,000 was secured to offset a portion of the needed rehabilitation cost of the bridge as well as improvements to the bridge approaches.
Although the bridge will remain closed through mid-July, Bridgefest will take place on Saturday, June 11, 2022 with much fanfare including fireworks to end the night.
Original source can be found here.
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