Town officials say Granite Avenue Bridge will need full replacement; interim repairs estimated for 2027 budget

Town Administrator Vicky Rinkerman told the Port Deposit Town Council on Feb. 3 that the Granite Avenue Bridge is roughly 90 years old and will ultimately require full replacement, though interim repairs could keep it open while funding is sought.

Rinkerman said she reviewed the engineering report and consulted RK&K and Cecil County's bridge inspection contact. She provided preliminary cost estimates of about $75,000 for engineering and $175,000 for construction and said the council should consider the work in the 2027 budget cycle.

Council members discussed long-term replacement cost ranges and the possibility of working with Cecil County engineering staff to reduce expenses. Rinkerman also reported that the Town has submitted an RFP related to the Granite and Race Street project and that a USDA extension request is under review by USDA national engineers; a meeting will be scheduled once USDA provides feedback.

Mayor Wayne Tome Jr. was reported to have contacted delegation offices to request assistance in supporting the Town's extension request. The council did not take a formal vote on bridge funding at the Feb. 3 meeting; staff were directed to continue coordination with county engineers and to include replacement planning in upcoming budget discussions.

Next steps: staff will pursue funding options and bring revised cost figures and funding recommendations to council as part of the 2027 budget process and after USDA feedback on the project extension.