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Elkhart County orders full closure of Bridge 332 after inspection finds critical damage; bids to open July 7
Summary
After an engineering inspection found critical structural beams and a site where barricades had been removed, the county approved a complete closure of Bridge 332 on County Road 142 and outlined a bidding and construction timetable.
Elkhart County officials approved a complete closure of Bridge 332 on County Road 142 between County Road 29 and County Road 42 after engineers reported critical structural problems and county crews found barricades had been moved, reopening both lanes.
Kyle Wagner of the Highway Department said Butler, Fairman’s August 2024 inspection showed the bridge was in "critical condition," and county staff had previously closed one lane. Wagner said crews later discovered the adjacent beam also was failing and that on June 10 someone had moved barricades and signs to the side of the bridge, "opening up a risk for the county itself and pedestrians." He recommended a full closure to reduce public-safety risk.
Wagner described measures to secure the closure, including locking barricade structures with chains attached to guardrails and daily inspections; commissioners said a press release would be issued after the meeting to explain the closure and estimated construction dates. The county said it issued a notice to bidders; bids will be opened July 7, the award is scheduled for July 14, and a notice to proceed is expected July 28. Wagner told commissioners the contractor will close the bridge during construction in any event, and the county wants to get ahead of future access issues.
A motion to approve the closure carried unanimously. Commissioners framed the action as a public-safety imperative and set the bidding schedule on the record.
