An estimated 30 people attended a Tuesday input meeting on constructing a new bridge over Jackson Pond in Lockhart.

Bill Wofford, district engineer for the Alabama Department of Transportation, said there was overwhelming support to replace the Roland Birge Bridge on Ala. Hwy. 55.

Wofford said the existing structure will be closed during construction and the proposed new bridge will be built in the existing location. Traffic will be rerouted while construction work is being performed.

“The official state detour would be, if coming from Florala to Andalusia, to go up (U.S. Hwy. 331) to Opp and around (U.S. Hwy. 84) to Andalusia,” Wofford said. “Of course, locals will find their own way, but for official purposes for big trucks and 18-wheelers who find it hard to negotiate turns, that’s the official detour route.”

Wofford said the target bid let date for the project is January 2014.

Those wishing to see a project map should visit the Andalusia district office.