Pedestrian Bridge Coming But Not As Soon As Hoped

Hopes of seeing a pedestrian bridge spanning Progress Parkway by the time the Ste. Genevieve County Family Aquatic Center opens in May were dashed at last Thursday’s County Commission meeting.

The commission had been notified by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) in December that the county was approved for a Transportation Alternative Project (TAP) grant for the project. The walkway will connect the Ste. Genevieve Community Center and Progress Sports Complex on the west side of the road with the water park, allowing patrons to safely cross Progress Parkway.

Arlene Dorris of MoDOT informed the commissioners that their hopes of having the walkway built this spring was not realistic.

“I don’t see getting funds allocated for several weeks,” she said in a phone conversation with the commissioners. She pointed out that several layers of paperwork would have to be processed after that, including an environmental/cultural study, which she called “the slowest part.” Plans also would have to be sent to MoDOT for comment and possible revision. This will include plans for handling traffic on Progress Parkway during construction.

She said a 23-month turn-around time “is not unusual.”

“I’m just being realistic with you about your time schedule,” Dorris said, adding that she will do all she can to speed up the process.

Ste. Genevieve County Presiding Commissioner Garry Nelson expressed appreciation for the help she and fellow MoDOT representative Elquin Auala give them.

See complete story in the January 9 edition of the Herald.