Bastrop community celebrates 100th birthday of downtown bridge

The 100th birthday celebration of the Old Iron Bridge was held from 5:30-8 p.m. Nov. 14 at Neighbor's Kitchen and Yard. Attendees witnessed the first lighting of the bridge.

Local Bastrop band Texas Gold performed live at Neighbor's Kitchen and Yard stage in front of the bridge. Pizza and Neighbor's Kitchen and Yard's iconic "Comeback Dip" was served at the free event.

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The event precedes efforts to repair the bridge expected to begin in early 2024. Following repairs, the bridge will be open for pedestrian traffic. Repairs are projected to be completed by 2026.

"I was tasked with getting this bridge open again," City Manager Sylvia Carrillo said at the event. "So I am happy to announce that with the past budget that was adopted, we have the funds available to begin reconstruction of this bridge."

According to Carrillo, engineering has begun on the bridge. Residents can expect a ribbon-cutting event upon the completion of the bridge repairs.

"This is a great community, and I can't wait to have that bridge back open again," Carrillo said.