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County requests $8.24 million to replace structurally deficient Orchard Beach Bridge
Summary
The Sheboygan County Road Commission told the subcommittee it needs $8,235,575 to replace a critically rated bridge built in 1976 that serves school buses, emergency vehicles and commercial traffic and would cause a 16-mile detour if closed.
The Sheboygan County Road Commission asked the House Appropriations subcommittee for $8,235,575 to replace the Orchard Beach Bridge, which the presenter described as structurally deficient and rated a '2' (critical).
A commission representative told the committee the bridge, built in 1976, has cracked box beams, leaking expansion joints, failing slope protection and damaged guardrails; the structure is on the state critical-bridge list. The presenter said closure would force a 16-mile detour, disrupt school-bus and emergency routes and increase costs for residents and businesses. The commission noted the project is in full compliance with Article IV, Section 30 of the Michigan Constitution as the funds would be used for a public purpose.
Members asked about alternative funding and a construction timeline; the commission said federal funds were being pursued and that plans are complete so costs are expected to be construction-focused. No vote on the appropriation was recorded during the hearing.
