Sturgeon Bay bridges: open for business

Marilyn Whiteley, on July 26, 2008, said:

At this stage of construction, the new bridge (due to come into use in about a month) is left in its open position. The old iron bridge beyond it is opened regularly to let boats pass through.

Originally the area north of here was a peninsula, connected to the mainland at its east end. Work on a canal was begun in 1872. The canal was open to small craft in 1880 and to larger boats a decade later.

Tony Reid, on July 26, 2008, said:

Was the old bridge not capable of handling traffic anymore?

Marilyn Whiteley, on July 26, 2008, said:

That's a very timely question, Tony. The old bridge was built in 1935, and for a number of years now there's been concern about its condition. Just five days ago, the highway department closed it without warning, requiring a fairly long detour to the bridge well to the east of the two sections of the business district (one on each side of the water). Then it was reopened during the daytime with the proviso that big signs and a police presence enforce a 5 ton weight limit. Only cars and light trucks are permitted to cross. It's scheduled for major refurbishing starting next March.