Trending
NILES -- The Ohio Department of Transportation confirmed the safety of a part of the U.S. 422 bridge over Mosquito Creek on Friday after citizens voiced concerns.
By design, the state said, there is a cap between the curb and the sidewalk in the general area that residents have questioned.
"There is no structural damage to the bridge," Ray Marsch, ODOT District 4 Public Information Officer, said. "It is safe for motorists and pedestrians to continue to use."
Marsch added, "ODOT is currently working to put a steel plate over the exposed concrete by the end of the day (Friday). We plan to make permanent repairs to the bridge in 2024."
Gary Shaffer, Trumbull County Deputy Engineer, stated in an email that the county Engineer's Office has received numerous calls regarding the bridge, after it was highlighted on social media.
"The structure is owned and maintained by the Ohio Department of Transportation," Shaffer said. "In addition, this office has been in contact with ODOT regarding this structure and has been assured that it is safe to travel on, and any required maintenance will be performed in a timely manner."
The email came in response to Shaffer's office being contacted by several citizens. Marsch also spoke with citizens and assured them there is no need to worry.
"We've had folks call and voice concern," Marsch said. "But this bridge is absolutely safe to drive on, to and from wherever people need to go. If something poses a safety risk, we will close the bridge. We always take into account the safety of the public. But in this case, the bridge is safe."