Newport Takes Steps to Maintain Purple People Bridge
Newport is advancing its responsibility for the Purple People Bridge by signing a short-term rental agreement to keep the emergency support structure in place while moving forward with plans for a permanent solution.
Agreement with LRT Restoration Technologies
The city has entered into an agreement with LRT Restoration Technologies, LLC for the rental and inspection of the emergency shoring system that supports a failed masonry pier on the bridge.
Ownership and Responsibility Shift
Newport became the official owner of the bridge in September and now directly manages the shoring system contract.
“This is shoring that was put up last year by the Purple People Bridge Company,” said Newport Assistant Manager Brian Steffen. “We’ve since inherited that shoring expense while we seek out permanent repairs for the bridge.”
Background and Importance of Shoring
In 2024, LRT Restoration Technologies installed the emergency shoring tower after detecting major structural issues in one of the bridge’s masonry piers. The shoring tower remains crucial not only for temporary stability but also as a key part of the planned lifting system to realign and repair the damaged section during restoration.
City's Commitment to Safety and Restoration
The city commission’s action ensures ongoing safety and structural integrity while efforts to design and fund permanent restoration continue.
Summary
Newport's temporary rental of emergency shoring reflects its commitment to maintaining Purple People Bridge safety as it pursues long-term repairs.
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