Taylor-Blair to open before Christmastime

For The Madison Press

DELAWARE — The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) says despite utility issues, the Taylor-Blair Bridge will open, weather permitting, on Saturday, Nov. 24, to pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

[/media-credit] The wooden bridge pieces are being put together by the contractor.

Construction started in June on the wooden, Pratt truss, covered bridge that spans a little more than 150 feet over the Little Darby Creek. The project has been delayed less than a month.

Utility issues, specifically, a 16-inch water main, not reflected on the construction work plans, had to be re-located because it was too close to the work zone.

There was also another water main and a utility pole that had to be moved. Working in and around the Little Darby Creek also demands extra precautions.

RB Jergens, of Vandalia, is constructing the bridge. Since last month, crews have been working more than 60 hours a week to ensure the bridge is open before Christmas.

Currently the contractor is putting together the wooden bridge pieces.

The roadway plans were designed by ME Companies and the bridge designer is Smolen Engineering, both Ohio businesses.

The total construction cost for this Madison County covered bridge is $2.3 million.