Bastrop officials, public slated to celebrate Old Iron Bridge 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

However, Harris emphasized how access is what he is most looking forward to.

“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.