Ontonagon Bridge Being Repaired

Press Release – Ontonagon Rail Bridge Repair

You have probably noticed some heavy equipment on the railroad bridge located near Ontonagon during the last few weeks in December, and wondered what was happening.

What you were seeing is repair work being completed by Norman Pestka Construction.

They were contacted by MI-TRALE to repair/replace the ice shield on the east support pier. The project was funded by ORV license receipts though the DNR grant program. OHM Engineering from Hancock provided engineering services.

Donald Helsel, President of MI-TRALE stated ”The timing was critical to have this new ice shield in place this winter, as the old ice shield was destroyed last year.”

Helsel further stated “the protective timbers had received major ice damage in the past due to the old ice shield damage, and it was questionable if the main supports would make it through this winter without major damage.”

MI-TRALE would like to thank all involved for stepping up and supporting this critical repair:
Norman Pestka Construction Company
OHM Engineering
DEQ
Army Corp of Engineers
MDNR, Parks and Recreation Department

The bridge will be modified to support a Multi-use Recreational Route in the future supporting all recreational users, while providing a connector to Ontonagon from the south.

Helsel stated “this bridge is a critical element in the development of all recreational activities on each side of the river. It was very important to protect this asset.”

Mi-TRALE looks forward to being part of developing the prior rail corridor to a full multi-use recreational system. This will be an economic catalyst for Ontonagon and Rockland.”

Photos included showing before and after repairs as well as an overview shot.