The future of Minoa’s Green Bridge

Big news to share: I’ve secured more than $20,000 in county funding for the Village of Minoa!

The money will be used to determine the future of one of the village’s most identifiable landmarks – and one many consider an eyesore – the ‘Green Bridge.’ Built in the early 70’s, it allows pedestrians easy and safe passage over the CSX train yard and connects the northern and southern parts of the village. But with rusting metal and chipping paint, the bridge clearly is in need of some work.

The county actually owns the bridge, so this funding will allow the county and the village the chance to work together to determine what steps we can take now to ensure it remains a safe asset for the community, and aesthetically pleasing for all who see it. An engineering firm will complete an evaluation of the current bridge and compare rehabilitating it versus replacement with a new one. Once complete, they’ll present their finding and a determination can be made as to the next steps.

Minoa’s Mayor, William Brazill, calls the bridge a “unique structure” in Onondaga County and believes it is part of what makes Minoa such a connected and welcoming community. “Beyond its function, it’s a piece of our history and community identity” he says. “The last time the bridge was painted was in the late 1990s, so this study comes at the right time to make sure we’re preserving this special landmark for future generations.”

Onondaga County Legislature Chairman Timothy Burtis says, “Legislator Olson has been advocating for this grant funding for some time, and persistence pays off. The bridge needs attention and Mark is dedicated to seeing this project through and making sure the county does its part.”

Whenever I’m in Minoa, someone always asks me, what about the Green Bridge? This funding allows us to take the needed first steps to deciding its future, and I look forward to the results and learning what comes next for the bridge.