Ed Hauser introduced me to Whiskey Island a few years back, and since then I have taken a keen interest in this part of Cleveland.  So today I thought I would check up on the new bridge which the County promised - to replace the former one lane bridge which was located next to the rail road tracks just before you get to the Whiskey Island Marina and Wendy Park. 

 UPDATE

The old bridge has been demolished, and the concrete for the abutments of the new bridge was being placed as I arrived this afternoon. 

I remembered from last Fall that the construction plans called for a four foot wide pedestrian walkway (during the construction) and lo and behold, there was a four foot wide walkway right up against the rail road tracks. 

Although the exposed vertical rebar violated every OSHA reg I know, the all white work crew (and speechless Cuyahoga County inspector - without hard hat, gloves, safety glasses or responsive civic attitude - on the right) seemed in good spirits and seemed to be taking a positive interest in their work. There was one woman under those winter CarHarts.

I spoke with Tim from the Marina who told me that the job was slightly ahead of schedule, and that the tag was for 2.3 million.  That seems on the high side to me. 

Why did the County commit to this bridge upgrade - not that I have a problem with it, I am just curious.  Is there some advantage/advancement for the iron ore pellet trains? Or is this simply a county road improvement for more convenient access to Wendy Park?