Newport to Fund Purple People Bridge Support Towers During Search for Permanent Solution
Newport is advancing its responsibility for the Purple People Bridge by securing a short-term rental agreement to maintain the emergency support system while plans for a long-term repair continue.
Emergency Shoring System Rental Agreement
The city has signed an agreement with LRT Restoration Technologies, LLC for the ongoing rental and inspection of the emergency shoring system that supports the compromised masonry pier on the bridge. Newport officially took ownership of the bridge in September and now directly manages the shoring system contract.
“This is shoring that was put up last year by the Purple People Bridge Company,” said Newport Assistant Manager Brian Steffen. “We’ve since inherited that shoring expense while we seek out permanent repairs for the bridge.”
Background on the Shoring Tower
In 2024, LRT Restoration Technologies installed the emergency shoring tower after detecting major structural distress in a masonry pier. The city emphasizes that the tower remains critical for not only temporary stabilization but also as part of the planned lifting system intended for realigning and repairing the damaged bridge section during restoration.
“The shoring tower remains essential not only for ongoing temporary stabilization but also as part of the planned lifting system,” the city stated.
Current City Action
The city commission's decision guarantees ongoing safety and structural stability while design and funding for a permanent restoration solution progress.
Summary: Newport is actively maintaining emergency support on the Purple People Bridge through a rental agreement, ensuring safety while pursuing a permanent repair plan.