NP to replace deck on S. Spring St. bridge

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NEW PARIS — Instead of a full renovation of the South Spring Street Bridge in New Paris, village council agreed during its meeting on Monday, June 3, to only replace the deck and composite beams on the bridge.

According to Mayor Kathy Smallwood, the village has been asked if it would be satisfied to just replace the deck at the South Spring Street Bridge or if it wants the full replacement on that bridge. Smallwood added, the deck is cheaper and would cost less money.

Susan Laux with Mote & Associates said Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) has determined because there haven’t been any accidents on Spring Street, it will allow the village to replace the composite beams and deck instead of the full replacement.

Originally, ODOT said the full bridge had to be replaced, because it was only 21 feet wide and has to be 26 feet wide to meet funding. Because there have been no accidents, ODOT is willing to make a replacement.

The difference to the village is five percent.

“The difference to you, in regards to the construction, is $9,300,” Laux said. “You would get a new deck and composite beams, but you wouldn’t get a whole new bridge.”

Laux added, the village’s share for construction of the deck only is $5,925, while their share for the construction of the total rehab is $15,230. The village is also responsible for paying the engineer.

“How long will the structure last that is holding that up?” Council member Mary Jane Thomas asked.

Laux responded, there is no way to know that. However, this is the plan the village originally proposed to ODOT. They originally wanted to replace the deck and composite beams only. Now, ODOT is saying the village can proceed with that plan.

Council member Thomas made a motion to replace the deck and composite beams at the South Spring Street. The motion passed unanimously.

Laux also updated council on:

•The curb and sidewalk work being done currently on East Cherry Street.

•Street repair and paving, which should begin in July. Laux asked council what streets they’re interested in paving, as there is money in the budget to do so. They also discussed different projects, such as paving trails or basketball court.

•The park project at the old school building in New Paris and available funds.

•The Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) submission for the High Street Bridge project.

By Kelsey Kimbler

[email protected]

Reach Kelsey Kimbler at 937-683-4061 or on Twitter @KKimbler_RH

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