Newport to pay for Purple People Bridge support towers amid search for permanent fix

Newport to Pay for Purple People Bridge Support Towers Amid Search for Permanent Fix

Newport continues its stewardship of the Purple People Bridge by entering a short-term rental agreement to maintain the emergency support system. This step ensures the bridge’s stability as plans for permanent repairs advance.

Ongoing Agreement and Maintenance

The city is finalizing an agreement with LRT Restoration Technologies, LLC for the continued rental and inspection of the shoring system supporting a damaged masonry pier. Newport, which officially took ownership of the bridge in September, now manages this responsibility directly.

“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.”

Structural Background

In 2024, LRT Restoration Technologies installed an emergency shoring tower after finding major structural distress in one of the bridge’s masonry piers. The city reports that the tower remains crucial not only for temporary stabilization but also for its role in the planned lifting system to realign and restore the damaged section.

City’s Commitment to Safety

Officials state that keeping the shoring system in place ensures ongoing safety and stability while long-term design and funding for full restoration continue to develop.

Author’s summary: Newport secures a short-term deal to maintain temporary bridge supports, safeguarding the Purple People Bridge until a permanent repair plan is realized.

WCPO 9 News — 2025-11-04