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Bitter Creek bridge design advances as council previews concept report and schedule
Summary
Council reviewed a design concept report for the Bitter Creek Bridge replacement funded by a $6.3 million grant; consultants recommended a precast dual‑span option, retained the historic bridge for pedestrians, and presented a schedule extending through 2026–2027.
The Clarkdale Town Council received a design concept report and public briefing on the Bitter Creek Bridge project on May 27, updating the council on design progress and next steps toward construction.
Lou Anderson and Curtis Krausman of consultant Ardura presented the concept and schedule after the town noted a $6.3 million grant award for the bridge replacement. The plan retains the existing historic bridge as a pedestrian and bicycle crossing while constructing a new two-way vehicular bridge adjacent and downstream of the old structure. Consultants reviewed several structural options and recommended a precast dual-span approach as the lowest‑risk, cost‑effective alternative.
"A precast dual span was our recommendation, and it happened to be cheaper as well," said Curtis Krausman, the lead designer. The team also addressed utilities (overhead APS lines and fiber to be relocated) and drainage, noting they are coordinating with county flood-control staff to demonstrate a "no-rise" condition for the 100‑year flood event so the project can proceed without an extended FEMA map revision.
Cost and schedule: the consultant presented a design-level construction estimate previously shown in the report near $3.8 million for the recommended option; the project schedule anticipates design completion and permitting work through late 2026 and construction activity into 2027. The town stressed that grant funds are sequestered for the bridge and that earned interest on those funds has been added to the project budget.
Council members asked about aesthetics, lighting and how the new vehicular bridge will be separated from the historic pedestrian span; staff said removable bollards and emergency access will be incorporated and that detailed renderings and lighting plans would be presented at a forthcoming public meeting. The council encouraged staff and the consultant to present more renderings and details at the public open house scheduled after the council meeting.
No formal vote was required on the concept report; staff will return with further design details and renderings as the project advances.
