Elkhart commission votes to file no comment on Middlebury bridge replacement

The Elkhart Historic and Cultural Preservation Commission voted to submit a 'no comment' response on a county bridge replacement project in Middlebury, a notification the commission receives as a certified local government for federally funded projects.

Staff explained the commission was notified because federal funding triggers review for potential effects on historic properties and said the property where the bridge sits is in Middlebury, not Elkhart. Staff recommended filing no comment; a commissioner noted the commission cannot require a covered or wooden bridge.

After a motion and second, the commission approved the recommendation by roll call. The action was recorded as a decision to submit no comment to the notifying agency; no COA or additional action was required.

The commission's role in this instance is advisory and limited to providing comments during the federal review process; the county will proceed with bridge replacement subject to applicable state and federal processes.