Montpelier Springs Road bridge in Monroe County closed indefinitely due to safety concerns

County officials say the 1970 bridge has rotted components, holes and no longer meets safety standards.

MONROE COUNTY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Montpelier Springs Road is closed indefinitely between Highway 42 South and Adams Road after Monroe County Public Works officials determined the bridge is no longer safe for drivers.

The bridge, which was built in 1970, has deteriorated over time and is now considered impassable.

Monroe County Public Works Director Kimble Stokes said crews found significant structural damage during an inspection, including rotted components and holes throughout the bridge.

“The bridge has deteriorated,” Stokes said. “It’s sort of rotted out. It’s a dangerous condition right now. Some of the runners and the cross members have rotted out. We’ve got holes in the bridge, and it’s impassable as far as I’m concerned.”

Stokes said the closure was necessary to protect drivers. While traffic on the bridge is typically light, he said usage is expected to increase as more homes are built in the area.

The bridge is also too narrow and does not meet current safety standards.

County crews plan to make temporary repairs while researching long-term replacement options with the state.

“It’s one of the two wooden bridges in the county, and so we are hoping that the DOT will have some funds available to replace bridges like this,” Stokes said.

For now, the roadway will remain closed until further notice.