Well-Known Covered Bridge In Frankenmuth Getting Overhaul

FRANENMUTH (WWJ/AP) - A well-known covered bridge that spans the Cass River in Frankenmuth is getting an overhaul.

The 239-foot-long, 230-ton wooden bridge will be closed intermittently in the Bavarian-themed community starting Monday for the work, which is expected to run through April 17.

The Bavarian Inn says the shingles and roadway planking will be replaced. Access to the Bavarian Inn Lodge, Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Frankenmuth River Place Shops will be available from the Weiss Street entrance. Pedestrians will be able to cross the bridge using a walkway.

"Like any bridge or roadway in Michigan, time and weather have taken its toll on our wooden covered bridge," Bill Zehnder, president of Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn, said in a statement. "Maintaining the bridge is a necessity for the safe passage of our guests and Frankenmuth visitors."

The covered bridge was installed in January, 1980 after nearly two years of construction on the riverbank.

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