Bridge to Fenton Could Open a Bit Sooner Than Expected

With any luck, and there has been precious little of that during the construction of the new Meramec River Bridge linking Sunset Hills to Fenton, the new span could open before its scheduled Aug. 27 debut.

The most recent completion date given by city officials for the opening of the new bridge has been the Monday following the big Fenton Days birthday party in Olde Towne Fenton on Aug. 25.

But that date could be moved up if a few last minute things are completed.

So will it open earlier than advertised? 

"Maybe," said Fenton City Administrator Mark Sartors.

As with many delays associated with construction of the new bridge, the opening date is a function of the weather.

"I can't tell you when it's going to open unless you tell me when it is or isn't going to rain," Sartors said Tuesday.

The next step toward completion is a concrete sealer that has to be applied after it is powerwashed, but the sealer can't be applied until 48 hours after powerwashing with no rain to allow the roadway to dry thoroughly, Sartors said. He said the sealer then has to dry thoroughly before roadway can be striped.

With some dry days that work can be expedited, but the chance of a couple of days in a row with no rain is in doubt since the National Weather Service forecast calls for a chance of thundershowers Wednesday and Thursday.

Regardless of the weather, the new bridge will be dedicated Aug. 25 at the Fenton Days birthday party in Olde Towne on Aug. 25. and although the bridge will be closed to vehicle for the duration of the festival, Sartors said it could be open for pedestrians, if the finishing touches can be taken care of in between rain showers