It was the second time members delayed action, as they were previously set to vote on the ordinance Aug. 26.
The details
The delays are in response to the need to complete an annual comprehensive financial report—a document needed for the issuance of the certificates of obligation, according to city documents.
“The city of Bastrop’s external auditors are thoroughly reviewing the financial status of the city of Bastrop, and are estimating the audit to be completed by the end of September,” Bastrop Finance Director Judy Sandroussi said in a staff report.
What we know
Approximately $10.1 million of the $20 million will be allocated to the Old Iron Bridge project, which will feature several improvements, including:
- Adding a concrete deck
- Adding steel truss components
- Installing railing
- Installing decorative lights
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,” 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’ll be able to walk around, stand there and just have moments of serenity,” Bastrop Mayor Ishmael Harris told Community Impact in late July.
Also of note
The delays have not impacted the timeline for the Old Iron Bridge project.
“The city has identified other funding sources that are currently being used for this purpose,” Sandroussi said.
Financing is being drawn from approximately $1.2 million in certificates of obligation from 2018 and about $1 million in certificates of obligation from 2023, according to city documents.
A new traffic pattern on the adjacent Loop 150 bridge was rolled out in early September to accommodate construction, which began Aug. 11.
“The Loop 150 Bridge will shift eastbound traffic into the center lane and close the lane closest to the Old Iron Bridge,” the city of Bastrop said in an announcement posted to social media. “The pedestrian walk will remain open.”
The adjustment, which does not include any changes to westbound traffic, is expected to last approximately six months, according to officials.
The outlook
Bastrop City Council will take action on an ordinance authorizing the issuance of the certificates at a 6:30 p.m. meeting Oct. 21, according to city documents.
