Berrien County commissioners received good news this week regarding future bridge repair funding, moving two major projects forward in the areas of Coloma and Galien.
Commissioner Jim Curran reported that the county has secured critical funding for bridge work planned in 2028, following a meeting with Road Department officials.
One project involves the Coloma Road Bridge over the Paw Paw River. Curran said approximately $2.1 million in funding has been awarded for deck rehabilitation on the bridge, with work scheduled for 2028.
Curran also announced funding for a full reconstruction of the Log Cabin Road Bridge over the Galien River branch. The bridge was constructed in 1959 and has been listed as “Structurally Deficient” on the National Bridge Inventory. That project is expected to cost about $1.4 million and is also planned for 2028.
Curran said county officials were pleased to receive funding for both projects, which address key infrastructure needs.
Road Damage Resolution Pending
In addition to the bridge updates, Curran told commissioners that Road Department staff have raised concerns about how the county handles damage to roads caused by negligence. He said County Weighmaster Don Goulooze joined the discussion and requested direction on establishing a formal policy.
The board asked staff to draft a proposed policy outlining how damage caused by negligence would be addressed. Commissioners will then be asked to review and revise the proposal before bringing it back to the full board for consideration.
