By JIMMY LAWTON

CANTON -- St. Lawrence County legislators agreed to close two bridges, with expectations of one remaining that way indefinitely, according to St. Lawrence County Highway Superintendent Donald Chambers.

On County Road 17 between the towns of DeKalb and DePeyster, a bridge that crosses over Beaver Creek will remain closed until the next construction season, while a second bridge in the Town of Fowler on Emeryville Road will remain closed indefinitely.

Highway Superintendent Donald Chambers says the Beaver Creek Bridge had been yellow-flagged for structural problems, but when attempting to remedy the existing problems, it major problems were identified.

Chambers said the bridge was built in 1938 and has lasted well beyond its design life. As a steel bridge without pavement, he said road materials like salt take a toll on the structure.

Chambers said the ability for the bridge is diminished and it’s old design means it’s a non-redundant structure.

There is significant loss of the original steel section to the tune of 60 to70 percent, according to Chambers.

“At this time the prudent thing to do for the safety of the traveling public was to close the bridge,” he said.

Unfortunately for those who regularly commute across the bridge the detour until next spring will run about 24 miles. Chambers said he understands that will be difficult for some travelers, but is hopeful the bridge can take priority when the next construction season begins.

“We are hoping to have it fixed at the beginning of the next construction season,” he said.

Repairs on the bridge are expected to cost several hundred thousand dollars, but Chambers said a better estimate was not yet available.

In Fowler the bridge closure could be permanent, but should have significantly less of an impact on drivers. Chambers estimated about 4 miles detour for most travelers as long as the bridge is closed.

He said a larger, better bridge that is nearby is available.

The county recently ended an ownership dispute regarding the bridge that involved the Town of Fowler and National Grid.

St. Lawrence County has struggled to maintain its bridges for decades.

In 2014 a report regarding the county’s bridge inventory stated the county would need to spend $3.1 million per year to maintain a 40 percent deficiency rate on its bridges.

The county is responsible for roughly 200 bridges.

For more information on the 2014 report see earlier story here http://northcountrynow.com/news/deferred-maintenance-st-lawrence-county-bridges-roads-and-culverts-adding-285-million-worth-nex