The nearly 100-year old W. Highland Ave. bridge over the Soo Line Railroad tracks at W. Martin Dr. is scheduled to be demolished and replaced because of its deteriorating condition. Built in 1910, the bridge had been named as a historic structure because of its unique double-arch design.

Bids are scheduled to be let next March for the $3.3 million project. Federal funds pay 80% and 20% funding comes from the city. Construction is expected to begin in the summer of 2008 with completion about a year later.

Ald. Murphy, as chair of the Arts Board, said that the panel was involved in the process of approving the design for the new bridge. In addition the Martin Drive Neighborhood Association is working closely with city traffic engineers to reduce accidents on or near the bridge.

Ald. Murphy said the Department of Public Works will release detour information next spring, but W. State St. and W. Vliet St. will serve as major detour routes during the nearly year long construction project.