05/16/2026
It has come to my attention that there is a Facebook post about the Toston Bridge. Many comments in that post are INCORRECT. Sorry for the long post, but the FACTS matter. Here are the FACTS about the demolition of the bridge.
Over the last 4 (maybe 5 years) , the safety of the bridge has been discussed at Commission meetings. Area residents have worked INCREDIBLY hard to learn about the issues, they have talked to MDT, and attended meetings in hopes of saving the bridge. I have met with MDT and many residents one-on-one to save the structure. I admire the dedication of these residents, and we were ALL hopeful that it could be saved. MDT and the county sent experts to photograph and examine the bridge. This has all (pictures included) been presented at public meetings over a few years. I believe there were articles in MT43NEWS about the efforts to save the bridge. Many hours have been spent researching grants to save the bridge. The efforts of residents and the commission were intense. NOBODY WANTED THE BRIDGE DEMOLISHED!!!
After several years, meetings, reports, etc., it was determined that the bridge needs to be demolished. I am writing this from home, so I don't have the files with me, but it was many many millions to save it (IF IT COULD BE SAVED)
MDT is paying for the demolition and all related expenses to the project. NOT THE COUNTY.
I saw comments about making it a walking bridge and other ideas. The bridge is NOT safe. In hindsight, it should have been maintained better. Hopefully, lessons have been learned.
There is an agenda item on the commission meeting next week, "Floodplain Permit for Toston Bridge," That is one formality in the process. It is NOT a chance to save the bridge. In addition, that agenda item may be tabled because the permit may not be complete by next Wednesday.
I believe the social media post that started the controversy is a slap in the face of the residents who worked tirelessly to save the bridge. They went above and beyond, and I THANK THEM.
A top priority of a Commissioner is public safety, and that goes beyond the Sheriff's Office. That includes making sure the bridges are safe for you and your family. If you have questions, please reach out to me on Monday.
Thanks for your time. Debi