In a letter to the Department of Transportation, Sen. Michael Ranzenhofer has asked the agency to reconsider its delay in replacing the Bethany Center Bridge.
While the DOT has stated the bridge is safe, its visual deterioration gives the appearance of a bridge in a high degree of disrepair.
At one time, the bridge was scheduled for replacement in 2011, but it was moved down the priority list and the earliest proposed replacement is now 2015.
"I recognize that allocation of scarce resources is of particular concern, but I would urge you to reconsider the deferral of this project," Ranzenhofer wrote to Commissioner Joan McDonald. "Please consider adding this project to your list of top-priority projects and start the process that will allow this bridge to be replaced as expeditiously as possible."
Ranzenhofer said he has received numerous complaints about the bridge, both from residents and business owners. He cited the bridge as a vital link in local agriculture transportation, especially with the opening of the Genesee Valley Agri-Business Park.
"Vital parts of the economy of the Genesee County would be seriously impacted by a failure of this bridge," Ranzenhofer wrote.
Download: Full letter (PDF).
