A small bridge on Spring Creek Road near Trion is expected to reopen by the end of August following an emergency replacement project prompted by safety concerns.

According to Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen, crews are replacing the deteriorated bridge with a modular aluminum culvert system costing more than $155,000. The new structure is expected to provide a durable, long-term solution at a significantly lower cost than constructing a traditional bridge.

The replacement project began after a Georgia Department of Transportation inspection uncovered significant deterioration beneath the bridge, including a large missing section of a supporting headwall. GDOT ordered the bridge closed immediately.

The new culvert, manufactured by Contech Engineered Solutions, is being built off-site before being installed at the location. Once in place, county crews will rebuild the roadway with layers of chert, gravel and asphalt.

The new crossing will increase from the current 8-foot span to approximately 12 feet and is designed to support loads of up to 80 tons. Because the structure is classified as a culvert rather than a bridge, it will not require routine bridge inspections by GDOT.

Allen said the project could serve as a model for replacing other aging small bridges throughout Chattooga County if the installation proves successful.

Officials note that construction schedules remain subject to weather and other conditions.