Bridge 59 on Starke County Road 700 S. over Bogus Run will be replaced in the next few years thanks to $444,000 in federal transportation funds awarded to Starke County. Construction is slated for 2025, but design work, development and right-of-way acquisition will be able to get started sooner in coordination with INDOT.
According to the Starke County Highway Department, Bridge 59 is structurally deficient due to sediment and deterioration. It is currently one of the last three deficient bridges in the county and the last to receive funding for replacement. The two other deficient bridges have received funding for replacement. They include Bridge 7 on County Road 1200 E. over the Yellow River and Bridge 137 on County Road 300 E. over the Yellow River.
In 2012, 23 of Starke County’s 59 bridges were deemed deficient and the county ranked 88th of 92 statewide in terms of bridge sufficiency ratings. Now, all but three are considered deficient. Starke County Highway Superintendent Rik Ritzler stated plans are being made for preventive bridge maintenance and repairs.
