What’s going on with the old bridge?
Published 8:27 pm Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Very little has developed since the Warren County Board of Supervisors approved the Vicksburg Bridge Commission to make a decision on whether or not to open the old Vicksburg Bridge to pedestrian and bicycle traffic.
Using the phrase “very little” is an understatement. In fact, nothing has publicly developed in regards to a decision being made in the last two months.
Unofficially, we’ve been told those in favor of opening up the 88-year-old bridge to year-round usage and members of the bridge commission have had “positive” discussions, but the matter remains unresolved.
It would be nice to have a decision made before the fall festival season gets here, but in the meantime, folks who do enjoy using the bridge for special events will get their opportunity in the coming weeks.
One such event is the inaugural “Supper on the ‘Sip” presented by the United Way of West Central Mississippi. The event, set for Sept. 27, is billed as dinner with a sunset overlooking the Mississippi River.
Food from local eateries like Rusty’s Riverfront Grill, Newks of Vicksburg and Taco Casa will be available from 6- 8 p.m. Tickets will be available beginning Friday and cost $35 and can be purchased at unitedwayvicksburg.org or call Kami at the United Way at 601-636-1733.
This is sure to be a great event and one that will be around year after year.
The ninth annual “Bricks and Spokes” event will be two days after the “Supper on the ‘Sip” and bicyclists are already registering for the event that is enjoyed each year by bicycle enthusiasts across the state and southeast.
It’s an opportunity to enjoy a ride across the historic bridge, as well as pedal through the Vicksburg National Military Park.
Registration is $30 prior to Aug. 15 and $35 from Aug. 15 to Sept. 4. After Labor Day, the cost increases to $40.
To register, visit bricksandspokes.racesonline.com or call 601-634-4527.
These are two awesome events that bring the community together for a day of fun, but imagine what it would be like if we could all enjoy the historic U.S. 80 bridge each day to walk across, pedal across or just admire and marvel at the Mighty Mississippi from a different perspective.
Maybe that will happen sooner rather than later.
Rob Sigler is editor of The Vicksburg Post. You may reach him at Rob.Sigler@VicksburgPost.com.