GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colorado – Demolition of the Grand Avenue pedestrian bridge has begun.

Construction crews began removal of the existing concrete decking on the north end of the bridge this week.

A containment system is being constructed below the bridge to catch any falling debris, and should be complete to the railroad tracks by the end of this week. Additionally, a tower crane has been erected at the north end for moving materials on to and off of the bridge.

Crews have discovered levels of deterioration even greater than what was originally thought on the underside of the bridge.

“Although the decking may look fine from the top, once you get underneath you can certainly see why it needs to be replaced,” said Mike McDill, Glenwood Springs City Engineer. “We’ve got chunks of concrete falling off, corroded rebar, and other issues with the decking. Replacing the deck is definitely something that needs to be done.”

McDill added that the bridge is structurally sound and that only the decking needs to be replaced.

The bridge is scheduled to be closed to public use through May 28 while the construction work continues.

The Two Rivers Park pedestrian bridge provides an alternate pedestrian and bike route, and the City of Glenwood Springs is running a dedicated free shuttle across the bridge from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

For more information about the project, including photos and the shuttle schedule and route, please visit http://www.grandavebridge.com. Questions also can be directed to (970)-456-4545.