Completion date set for new Kingsland bridge after previous one washed away

AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 7 Austin) - Completion of the 2900 bridge in Kingsland, which washed away by floods last October, is expected to be completed by the end of the month. TxDOT plans to have it open by May 24, just in time for Memorial Day weekend.

With severe weather on the way many people nearby worry the project might be delayed. TxDOT said they feel comfortable that they will not have to delay the project any further.

It's the home stretch with repairs on the new 2900 bridge in Kingsland just about done.

"We did appreciate having the bridge here until it was gone," said Pat Adams who lives near the bridge.

Adams was outside when the flood washed away the previous bridge.

"You could hear the roar," said Adams.

Adams said everyone in her neighborhood is eager for the new bridge to be done as it's the main way to get into town. With it gone, they have to take an hour detour just to get to the other side of the lake where the rest of the town is.

"We didn’t appreciate having the bridge here until it was gone," said Adams.

The $17 million project includes a much wider, taller bridge compared to the previous one and a sidewalk. Debris from the old bridge acted as a road block for construction as it was in the way and needed to be cleared.

Adams said her neighborhood is ready to finally rejoin with the rest of town.

"Kingsland even though it's not a city, it's our community," said Adams.

While the flooding knocked out the bridge, it also destroyed the nearby park. Crews had to completely clear the area as the flooding left too much debris.

"The whole community used that park and you know we want it back," said Adams.

Adams said there is still a lot of work to be done following the flood aside from the bridge, but with its completion she feels it will make other projects go smoother.

Kingsland plans to have a big event at the end of the month to celebrate the opening of the bridge with proceeds going to post-flood relief as some of the area is still recovering.