For over a century, the Washington Street Bridge stood as a key connection in the Village of Augusta, carrying traffic over Augusta Creek and linking both sides of the community. Built in 1921, the steel I-beam structure had served its purpose well, but by its 100th year, it was no longer fit for modern needs. Deterioration had taken its toll, and the bridge was downgraded to a five-ton weight limit, forcing fire trucks, ambulances, school buses, and delivery vehicles to reroute, posing risks to safety and daily life in the village.
Determined to replace the failing bridge, the Village applied multiple times through the MDOT Local Bridge Program before finally securing funding. With financial support from federal and state sources totaling over $1 million, the project moved forward to design and construction.
Engineering teams worked together to develop a new 50-foot-span steel bridge with concrete abutments supported by deep cast-in-place piles, built to last and designed to improve traffic flow and safety. Heavy riprap was added to protect Augusta Creek from erosion, preserving the natural channel below.
The effort went beyond the bridge itself. As part of a broader street improvement project, Washington Street was reconstructed between Webster Street and Augusta Drive. The addition of a sidewalk improved pedestrian access, stormwater systems were upgraded for better drainage, and the intersection was modernized to meet ADA requirements.
Despite challenges with late-season construction and utility coordination, the project was completed through careful collaboration. Today, the new Washington Street Bridge stands stronger, wider, and safer—restoring a vital connection in Augusta and supporting the needs of residents and businesses for generations to come.