KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Drivers in Kalamazoo’s Westnedge Hill neighborhood may come across an unexpected traffic tie up and road closure for the time being.
Around 9 a.m. Monday Kalamazoo city officials announced that effective immediately, the Inkster Avenue bridge over Bronson Boulevard will be closed indefinitely to all motoring and non-motoring public. This is between Westchester and and Plymouth Lanes.
City officials say that the closure was prompted by a structural inspection last week that found several damaged beams and components in need of repair. Winter weather and ice is believed to be behind the damage done to the bridge.
Public Services Director James Baker told MLive that despite the structural damage, the bridge’s foundation is in good shape. The decision to close the roadway was made after discussing the best course of action with the city’s engineering team.
Any reopening of the bridge both ways would likely require long-term fixes. Kalamazoo city officials are considering their options for making repairs to the crossing.
A detour has been posted encouraging drivers to take University Avenue to Edgemoor Avenue for those trying to head westbound and Alta Vista Avenue, to Edgemoor, to University for drivers traveling eastbound.
