Eighth Street Bridge Reopens; More Bridge Updates

The Eighth Street bridge has reopened to traffic in downtown Traverse City after being closed since late July for reconstruction.

The city reopened the bridge Friday, though noted that workers are still waiting on the delivery of architectural fascia panels. Once those materials arrive, installation of the panels will require the bridge to close again for another 1-2 weeks. The city will announce that closure in advance.

Work has also been completed to reopen the South Cass Street Bridge to traffic. Work to strengthen the temporary wood railing on the bridge is expected to be complete after November 29 as materials are delivered and work crews are available. The temporary railings will be replaced by permanent railings. Once railing work is done, the sidewalk will open for pedestrian use. Pedestrians will continue to use the shoulder while the bridge sidewalk remains closed. 

Work has also resumed on the West Front Street Bridge after a brief delay due to the need to protect active phone lines in the work area. The contractor will be finishing demolition and beginning cofferdam work over the next couple of weeks.