Local Bridges In Need Of Repair
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Updated: 7:36 PM Oct 14, 2010
Local Bridges In Need Of Repair
A report by MDOT lists nearly 100 local bridges that need repair or updates very soon
Posted: 6:50 PM Oct 14, 2010
Reporter: Lauren Zakalik
Email Address: lauren.zakalik@wilx.com
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Nearly 100 bridges in mid-Michigan-- bridges that hover over some of our busiest highways and roads-- are in dire need of repair. That's according to a new report from MDOT.

"It's a little scary. It's something you don't want to be thinking about as you're driving over bridges we have in the area," says Lansing resident Tiana Hawver.

The annual report released Thursday points out some major deficiencies in our local bridges. At least 97 bridges in Ingham, Eaton, Clinton and Jackson counties are considered either "structurally deficient"-- which means they need repairs now, or "functionally obsolete"-- which means they are outdated.

A repeat offender? The bridge on Lake Lansing Road that goes over US-127. MDOT tells us they're trying their best to do maintenance to bridges that keep making the list. But with a $320 million shortfall, it's hard to stretch current funds to repair all the bridges, says spokesman Bill Shreck.

Currently, Ingham County has 45 total bridges in need of some sort of repair. Jackson County has 26, while Eaton has 16 and Clinton has 10. Drivers we spoke to Thursday say this news is enough to make them take action.

"I think I would contact my congressman or representative to argue the point," says Millard Sivak.

"i'm hoping they're working on fixing those, but I also realize it takes money to do that," Hawver says.

A list of all the bridges in need of repair is on the link below.


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