Trending
WELLSBURG -- While a precise date for the opening of the new bridge set to span the Ohio River between an area south of Wellsburg and Brilliant, plans are being made for when the day finally arrives.
Community representatives from West Virginia and Ohio gathered at the bridge Tuesday, meeting with officials from the West Virginia Department of Transportation to learn more about the completion of the span and discuss opportunities to celebrate the opening.
It was just the latest in a series of planning sessions, according to Tresa Thomas, secretary of the Wellsburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
"We've been meeting once a month," she explained, noting she has been told WVDOT still hopes to have the bridge ready the first or second week of September.
In addition to the official opening ceremony, Thomas said there are plans for a car cruise with the Northern Panhandle Regional Antique Car Club, with cars set up on the bridge and special, commemorative dash plaques.
High school bands from both sides of the river have begun working together for a combined performance on the day of the event, and local fire departments have discussed the possibility of a water brigade.
Transportation to and from the bridge site is being discussed for those planning to attend.
"We're just trying to think of all avenues and anyone of importance," Thomas said.
Tuesday's meeting included officials from Wells Township and the city of Wellsburg, who were able to view areas of the bridge up close.
Many of those in attendance reported their astonishment at the size and detail of the bridge.
Under the direction of the Flatiron Corp., the estimated $131 million project has been under active construction over the last few years, with the 830-foot-long main span built in an area just south of Wellsburg and then floated down the river to its planned site in April 2021. A ceremonial groundbreaking for the bridge was held in 2018.