The Bridge Street (aka William Cribari) Bridge is getting ready for the big time.
This summer, surveyors were all over the 131-year-old, much-loved, unique, narrow, creaky and decaying structure. State authorities have marked it for improvements — though exactly what that entails, and when, is unclear.
At the same time, a move is underway to designate it as historic. Such a designation would limit the kinds of improvements that could be made.
Hand-cranking open the Bridge Street (William Cribari) Bridge.
The debate will continue — with, no doubt, more public attention and input than it’s received so far.
Whatever happens, this much is sure: It will cost more than the $26,700 the town spent to build it in 1884.
The bridge it replaced was just 13 years old. But it had already been eaten away by shipworms.
The Bridge Street bridge, open for Saugatuck River navigation.