Dunbar Bridge still major concern for residents
Several residents again voiced their concerns about the Dunbar Bridge at the Board of Commissioners meeting on Monday morning.
Greencastle resident Marilyn Reasor was the first of several to express their opinions. Reasor started by explaining her stance on the issue, noting that she owns part of the land on which the bridge stands.
If and when the bridge does close, Reasor as well as the neighborhood in which it is located will be forced to find a different route into town, she said.
"The bridge belongs to the people," said Reasor. "It's historic, and so is Rockville Road."
The bridge, which was built in 1880, has been in need of repairs for quite some time now. Not only does it leak during heavy rains it is also unable to handle the weight of a school bus or a fire truck, which is a major concern for not only the neighborhood but for fire and safety as well.
"It's a matter of public safety and response time," explained Greencastle Fire Chief Bill Newgent. "This area is not immune to emergencies."
The alternate route, County Road 300 West (Walker Lane) from West Walnut Street Road, would force people to drive an extra 12 miles out of their way. Also, it would make for longer response times for emergency services.
Board members cleared up many of the misconceptions that had arisen such as the bridge closing at any time.
"The bridge will not be destroyed," Board of Commissioners President Gene Beck said. "We have never said the bridge will be closed."
Although, there is no plan to fully shut down the bridge, it will eventually turn into a pedestrian bridge. The bridge will be preserved and cared for just like all covered bridges in Putnam County.
"The people that are in favor of the bridge are a minority," said Nancy Fogle. "The way the economy is, if we spend that amount of money, it leaves a bad taste in peoples' mouths."
After 45 minutes, Beck was forced to end the discussion since the board had already voted on the matter.
The board also heard from Tim Oaks, an attorney representing Martin Marietta. Oaks presented the final agreement to the board, which was approved, for the surfacing of the road known as Frontage Road No. 2.
Jim Tennacour of H.P. Legacy also proposed to do a walk through of all county-owned buildings to test the energy levels. The free walk through will allow the county to see the ways they are losing money due to energy costs and present ways to fix them.
Finally, County Clerk Marty Watts presented plans for the redistricting in Putnam County. The commissioners approved the redistricting plans, which will go into effect after the 2012 election.
Putnam County is one of 12 counties in Indiana making plans to redistrict.