The Bicentennial Bridge in St. Joseph is closed — literally.
Michigan Department of Transportation spokesperson Nick Schirripa tells us some boat traffic cannot proceed under the bridge at this time.
“It is closed to maritime traffic,” Schirripa said. “It is down there in a new closed position so it is open to vehicular traffic.”
That means masted ships can’t go through. However, those that can still run under the bridge without it opening can do so.
Schirripa says a piece of equipment that enables the drawbridge to open has broken. They have the replacement part available.
“Next steps are having that replacement cylinder inspected to make sure it’s still good. It’s obviously been on inventory for a while, so we’ll inspect that new cylinder and then get a contractor and a contract in place to have that work done. We are looking at a process that may take several more weeks.”
The broken cylinder is part of the rolling girders that allow the bridge to open.
Schirripa says the bridge is otherwise safe for vehicle traffic.
