It’s been over 9 years since the New Harmony bridge was closed to traffic. Officials are working to find a way to get the span re-opened in some capacity. A joint meeting of the Illinois and Indiana Bridge Authorities is planned for later this week. Chairpersons for both commissions will gather to discuss updates on their goals. They’re hoping to get federal dollars to help cover the cost of making repairs. The latest figures ballpark estimated repairs to cost around $20 million. At the meeting, we’re expecting to get an update on the RAISE Grant and also learn more about an underwater study as well as National Environmental Policy Act studies. Lease negotiations and remedial issues surrounding the gas line with New Harmony and fiber line with Sparklight will be discussed as well. Officials will also unveil a cost benefit analysis. That meeting is scheduled for this Fridy at 10am in Carmi. We’ll have a recap following the get together.
