Spillway bridge to receive expansion, trail

With construction on a bridge over a lake spillway, Union County is taking the opportunity to add a walking trail alongside.

The Green Valley Lake spillway helps transport overflowing water from the south end of the lake into Mitchell Marsh. The bridge over the spillway carries traffic and will see construction as Union County expands the structure.

Union County approved the initial plans for the project during last week’s meeting, opening a letting date for the estimated $1.2 million project. The bridge is located along 140th Street.

Engineer Christian Boehmer said the plans for the project were “immense,” which involve structure improvements and adding a trail along the edge of the spillway with a guardrail. The bridge constructed about 70 years ago was considered highly critical due to its location and priority.

The bridge will expand to be 30-feet wide with a 10-feet trail alongside. The prestressed concrete beam bridge will have a letting date for Oct. 29. A later date than usual, the extended time should help contractors sort through the project plans and make more informed bids.

The bridge trail will connect with a nearby bike trail, creating an alternate route for those looking for new ways to get their steps in.

Boehmer said he’d prefer contractors to work over winter on the project but understands the factors which can slow construction during the season.

TIFF funds through windmill revenues will provide funding for the project with no burden on Union County taxpayers.

In other Union County news...

During last Wednesday’s public forum, Creston Chamber of Commerce Director Ellen Gerharz introduced to the Board of Supervisors her replacement, Olivia Cheers.

“I wanted to thank you because it has been a pleasure working with all the different supervisors over the years and the support you’ve given to tourism is greatly, greatly appreciated,” Gerharz said.

Gerharz will have an open house for her retirement from 3-6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14 at Liberty Hall. She said she was convinced by her staff and friends to have one last party to celebrate her 26 years as part of the Creston Chamber.

“I just wanted to quietly ride off into the sunset,” Gerharz said.