2 historic Mill Creek bridges to be restored this year

YOUNGSTOWN

Mill Creek MetroParks will begin work later this year to restore two historic stone arch bridges in the park.

The project, set to begin this summer, is a rehabilitation of Orchard Meadow and Rogers bridges, both of which extend over Bear Creek. The plan is to clean and re-point the bridges’ stone masonry, construct retaining curbs and replace the pavement over the bridges.

Eighty percent of the project’s estimated $112,500 cost will be covered by a Federal Highway Transportation Alternative Program grant. The park system’s budget will cover the remaining $22,500.

The goal of the rehabilitation project is to improve conditions for vehicular and non-vehicular traffic, preserve the bridges’ original function and restore their aesthetic appeal, the park administration says.

Both bridges, like many others in the park, were built in the early 1900s and time has taken its toll on the stone, said Steve Avery, park planning and natural resources director.

Learn more about the project, planned detours and how to give input to the park board in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.