Another attempt to transform Blue Bridge fails

NEWPORT, AR (KAIT) - Another attempt for the City of Newport to keep the Blue Bridge and transform it into a walking trail failed Monday night.

Mayor David Stewart said by a majority vote, the city council decided not to apply for a grant to help turn the historic bridge into a walking and recreational trail.

The city applied for the same grant last year but did not get it.

At that time, the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department offered the city just under a million dollars to help refurbish the bridge.

In January, the city council decided not to accept the donation because of how much it would still cost.

Construction on the replacement of the Blue Bridge is already underway. The $31 million dollar bridge will have four lanes. It's expected to be complete in 2017.

Copyright 2016 KAIT. All rights reserved.

Watch Region 8 News On Demand: On your Desktop | On your Mobile device

Region 8 News App - Install or update on your: iPhone | Android