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Editor, News-Register:
I am quite curious to learn if any decision has been, or soon will be, made and implemented regarding the future of the Aetnaville Bridge, also known as the Georgia Street Bridge, which has connected Aetnaville, Ohio, with Wheeling Island, West Virginia, since its opening in 1891 and until its closure to vehicular traffic in 1988.
The historic structure did however, remain open for pedestrian traffic crossing the Ohio River at that point until January 2016, when it was closed for safety concerns, as the structure had incurred significant structural deterioration to all types of crossings. Earlier it had been reported that the historic bridge had been determined to be beyond repair, and would possibly be removed or replaced by a footbridge in order to accommodate pedestrian traffic. But as of yet it appears no decision has formally been made. And the structure continues to sadly deteriorate even further.
The construction of a bridge that would at least be open to pedestrian traffic would be very much welcome, as it may be considered that crossing the Ohio River just south of the Aetnaville Bridge on the Bridgeport Bridge may be quite challenging and somewhat dangerous to cross at that location due to heavy concentration of vehicular traffic
In West Virginia, Gov. Jim Justice has been a very strong advocate for and proponent of infrastructure, highways and bridge upgrades. And as the Aetnaville Bridge is the property of the state of West Virginia, perhaps an amicable resolution to the aforementioned situation may be considered and realized.
In addition, when a much welcomed decision is made, I would suggest that a commemorative plaque be placed at or near the site where the current Aetnaville Bridge now stands.
Richard Hord
Martins Ferry