Commission approves ALDOT agreement for Riverside Bridge replacement

The commission approved an agreement with the Alabama Department of Transportation to proceed with the Riverside Bridge replacement project. County engineer Clay Phillips told commissioners the agreement had been received from ALDOT and that staff expect work to begin in late FY27 or in FY28; he said funds are available through FY29. The motion to approve the agreement was moved, seconded and carried.

Commissioners discussed whether the project might require demolition of the old span and noted possible historical considerations because the structure may date to the 1930s or be a CCC-era bridge. Phillips said engineers have drafted two alternatives — either installing a spillway or replacing pipes — and that updated cost estimates will be required before construction starts.