The bridge is back, and if everything goes according to plan the structure will be erected in Depot Park by Labor Day.
The 40-foot steel and wood bridge will span the river separating the playground side of the park from the gazebo side, a project long on the wish-list of some residents.
Although the venture was started and stopped several times in recent years, one local woman is determined to see it happen this time.
‘It’s a safety point for children,? said Gini Schultz, long-time Clarkston resident and owner of the Clarkston Country Store on Main Street. ‘It’s important to have access from the gazebo to the playground area without going back toward the parking lot. The bridge will make Depot Park even more family-friendly.?
Quick, safe access from one side of the park to the other, she said, becomes even more important during the park’s heavy-use times, such as Concerts in the Park.
The 8-foot-wide bridge will be a simple, classic design, painted hunter green and projected to cost $50,000’a price tag about one-third the size of the stone bridge planned last year.
John Hennig Carpentry, LLC, will handle installation of the bridge.
‘Actual placement shouldn’t take any more than a week,? said Hennig, an Independence Township resident, noting the bridge would arrive after being manufactured off-site.
Schultz, who last week began soliciting donations to help fund the bridge, wants to see it up in time for the annual village Labor Day picnic, which will be celebrated this year in conjunction with Clarkston’s 175th anniversary.
‘I’m starting from scratch,? said Schultz, noting all donations from previous bridge-building efforts were returned. ‘I started pounding the pavement Monday. I’m optimistic and excited to see this finally happen.?
Anyone wishing to contribute to the Friends of Depot Park Bridge can make checks payable to city of the Village of Clarkston, Depot Park Bridge.
Donations may be sent to the Village of Clarkston, 375 Depot Road, Clarkston, MI 48346.
For more information contact Gini Schultz at 248-625-3122 or 248-625-3062.