Bastrop Mayor Ishmael Harris, Bastrop City Council and others are expected to attend the event, which will take place at the Old Iron Bridge entrance closest to downtown.
“This is a staple representation of Bastrop, so I’m really excited about the restoration of the Old Iron Bridge,” Harris, who expects a great turnout, told Community Impact. “I remember growing up as a kid and riding across that bridge, so it means a lot to me that our city is able to hold on to that heritage.”
About the project
The project—designed by Austin-based Huitt-Zollars and to be completed by Dripping Springs-based Jay-Reese Contractors—will feature several improvements, including:
- Adding a concrete deck
- Adding steel truss components
- Installing railing
- Installing decorative lights
“I’ll be able to walk around, stand there and just have moments of serenity,” he said.
Some context
In late June, Bastrop City Council approved a resolution for the intended issuance of certificates of obligation worth $20 million—$10.1 million of which will be used to fund the Old Iron Bridge project, as previously reported by Community Impact.
There will be an estimated 5% interest rate, according to a city staff report.
The remaining $9.9 million will be directed toward other potential projects, such as improvements at Minerva Delgado Park, Fireman’s Park and Mayfest Park.
The Old Iron Bridge project was previously estimated to cost $15.3 million, according to a city document from 2022.
The backstory
The Old Iron Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990.
“It exemplifies the Parker steel-truss style—a truss design that was commonly used in bridges in Texas and the U.S. from the 1920s to the 1940s,” Bastrop Finance Director Judy Sandroussi said in June. “It was among the largest bridges in Texas at the time and remains one of the earliest examples of Parker steel-truss bridges still intact in the state.”
The local landmark, which closed in 2018 in response to safety concerns, is now on track to reopen in the fall of 2026.
“I encourage the community to come on out to the rehabilitation kickoff and show support as we take the time to preserve a big part of Bastrop history,” Harris said.
