The closed Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge over Trenton Channel is expected to re-open on the evening of Thursday, November 21. The bridge was temporarily closed to vehicular traffic on Wednesday, November 13 at 7PM after the results of the last inspection noting deck deterioration and a reduced load rating. The re-opening date is anticipated. Unforeseen events or weather could cause a change to this schedule.

The Wayne County Bridge Maintenance Unit began work on November 14. In order to re-open the bridge, approximately 10 steel plates are being installed to support beams that were identified for repairs.

"We are continuing to make progress with the repairs and are currently set to re-open the bridge on Thursday night," said Beverly Watts, Director of the Department of Public Services. "We will continue to communicate any updates.I'd like to thank the Wayne County Executive Warren C. Evans, Wayne County Commissioner Joe Palamara and the Township officials for their support and guidance as we take the necessary steps to get the bridge re-open."

Due to the bridge's condition, Wayne County performs annual inspections with regular maintenance monitoring (federal/state regulations require the bridge to be inspected every two years).

The Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge will undergo extensive rehabilitation work during the 2020 construction season. Construction will be completed in phases:

* Phase I (foundation improvements): The work that was originally planned as phase 1 will include foundation rehabilitation, which entails reinforcing the existing foundation, most of which is underwater. This work will require highly specialized expertise and equipment. The design is expected to be completed in summer 2020.

* Phase II (superstructure improvements): The work will entail removing and replacing deteriorated structural members. The design for Phase II has been completed and rehabilitation work is being bid out. Work is expected to take place throughout the entire 2020 construction season.

The planned rehabilitation work will require an extended closure of the bridge. Wayne County will continue to regularly communicate with Township officials and Commissioner Palamara throughout the repair process.

Wayne County is committed to the safety of our residents and motorists.

Advised detour:
Eastbound: northbound W. Jefferson Avenue to Bridge Road, from Bridge Road to Meridian Road, and then back to Grosse Ile Parkway.

Westbound: Grosse Ile Parkway to Meridian Road, from Meridian Road to Bridge Road, from Bridge Road to W. Jefferson Avenue, and then back to Grosse Ile Parkway.

The public can contact the Wayne County Roads division at 888.ROAD CREW or log onto waynecounty.com for updated news and information.