I am a preservationist. I love older architecture and currently own a home that was built in 1941. My home has almost been unchanged over the years. I have been spending the last few years just restoring it without changing the era design.
So to know that the Manette Bridge was to be replaced was kind of sad for me. The Manette bridge is 80 years old and has a personality of its own. Although it is still safe to drive across it is aging. There is extensive rust - almost an inch think in places and the concrete footings are corroded by the saltwater of the Port Washington Narrows. I understand that for safety reasons it must be done.
The Manete Bridge replacement will be a year-and-half-long project that has just started. It will be interesting to watch the construction process. It will also be interesting when there is a 4 month closure next summer. Once the new bridge opens the old structure will be dismantled.
The new Manette Bridge will be pedestrian friendly which will be a real needed improvement. I am also pleased that they are going to incorporate the green color of the existing bridge into the new bridge.
I also think that at the east end of the bridge the proposed "roundabout" will really improve the traffic flow and really enhance that intersection.
You really have to look at the Flickr stream - Manette Bridge Replacement
Also, here is a video of what the Manette Roundabout will look like - Manette Roundabout
Here is a video I took driving over the bridge a couple of years ago.
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