Dear Editor:
I understand the necessity to reconstruct the Badley bridge over the Grand River in Elora, and I also understand that a more modern design that is essentially a concrete slab and concrete parapet walls would be less costly than revitalizing the existing bridge.
My question though, is has anyone considered salvaging the metal framework of the existing bridge and incorporating it into new structure?
It would mean basically removing the superstructure of the existing bridge, swinging it out of the way (in one piece or more), then replacing it on the new concrete slab bridge. It would not serve any structural purpose, but would result in preserving the picturesque entrance to our town.
This would undoubtedly cost more than simple demolition, but it might be a compromise worth investigating.
Mark Walker,
Elora