Columbus city engineer says temporary construction bridge will remain until new South Bridge opens, emergency plan in place

Columbus City Council heard an update on the Nebraska Department of Transportation South Bridges project from city engineer Rick Bogus, who said contractors are completing concrete pours and pile driving and are preparing lanes for winter as part of ongoing construction.

Bogus told the council the structure currently visible over the river is a temporary construction bridge used for access and staging. "That's a temporary bridge and that's for their construction purposes," he said, adding that the temporary structure will be removed when the new bridge is complete.

Council members raised concerns from the public about ice jams and the number of pilings on the temporary structure. Bogus said the contractor maintains an emergency action plan for ice, snow and debris removal and has monitoring cameras and equipment on site. "They have a very vested interest in that temporary bridge ... it's in their best interest to make sure that that's clear," he said, explaining the contractor will actively manage ice and debris.

When asked when the temporary bridge will be taken down, Bogus said the new bridge is not scheduled to open until 2027 and there is no firm removal date yet; removal will be staged based on contractor access needs. "I don't have a date for you," he said, adding that the contractor will move the temporary bridge as access needs change.

The council did not take formal action on the update; Bogus's remarks were provided as an informational report.