Mayor urges formation of regional working group to resolve bridge ownership and maintenance

Mayor Eric Vandiver reviewed the city's previous steps on the Old Railroad Bridge and urged a broader, regional approach to preserve the structure for future generations.

"We even sought the state attorney general's opinion ... Pursued that, attained legislative annexation of the bridge into the city of Sheffield so that public participation could even be legally considered," the mayor said, summarizing legal and administrative history and arguing that past efforts show Sheffield has not simply refused involvement. He proposed a regional working group that would include representatives from the nonprofit steward, neighboring cities and counties, the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area, tourism organizations, engineers and potential donors to develop "a realistic, legally sound, financially sustainable plan" addressing ownership, governance, engineering priorities and long-term maintenance responsibilities.

Council members agreed the question of who owns and who pays must be clarified before committing municipal funds. The mayor said the city will "gladly have a seat at that table" and evaluate any lawful, financially responsible proposal. No formal resolution to create the regional group was adopted at the meeting; councilors asked the bridge organizers to convene a first meeting within roughly 60 days and to provide updated reports and partner commitments.