In a positive development for one of the community’s local landmarks, the Warren City Park is set to receive a new bridge over the town branch, thanks to a substantial donation from local manufacturing company AHF Products. The Warren City Council approved the installation of the new bridge during their monthly meeting on Monday evening, November 13, 2023.
Top photo: The current wooden bridge that crosses the Town Branch in the Warren City Park is soon to be replaced.
AHF Products Plant Manager in Warren, Steve McHanes, addressed the Council on Monday night. McHanes confirmed AHF’s generous offer to provide a metal trailer that will be repurposed to form the core structure of the new bridge. Additionally, AHF will cover the cost of labor to assemble the bridge in place of the current wooden structure.
While AHF Products is covering a substantial portion of the project, the City will be responsible for purchasing the necessary supplies for the installation. Estimated to be between $10,000 and $15,000, this expense includes the recommendation from McHanes to use composite decking for the walking surface of the bridge. McHanes highlighted that the composite material boasts a significantly longer life expectancy compared to traditional decking materials.
During the Council meeting, McHanes’ proposal received unanimous approval, with the Council voting 5-0 in favor of the plan. One alderman was absent during the vote. The Council set a maximum budget of $15,000 for the supplies and materials required for the project.
Parks and Recreation Director Kyle Wagnon expressed optimism about the timeline for the bridge installation, stating to the Saline River Chronicle after the meeting that he expects the new bridge to be in place soon.
Following the vote, Warren Mayor Gregg Reep took a moment to express gratitude to AHF for their generous donation, emphasizing the company’s ongoing support for Warren City Park. He mentioned that AHF had recently contributed $1,000 towards repairing the historic gazebo, which unfortunately fell victim to vandalism.
The upcoming addition of the new bridge is poised to enhance the recreational experience for park visitors, providing a modern and durable crossing over the town branch. The community eagerly awaits the completion of this project, made possible through the collaborative efforts of the City Council and the generous donation from AHF Products.