Wauwatosa Ask Now: Why are there barriers and fencing along the North Avenue bridges over the Menomonee River?

The city has installed fencing and concrete barriers along two North Avenue bridges. The city plans to replace or repair crumbling stone walls.

The city has installed fencing and concrete barriers along two North Avenue bridges. The city plans to replace or repair crumbling stone walls. Photo By Rick Romano

July 26, 2016

Is there a rumor you've heard that you would like to track down? Is there something in the city — like playground equipment or a pothole — that needs to be fixed? Rick Romano answers some of the mysteries of life in Wauwatosa and helps solve everyday problems.

Why are there barriers and fencing along the North Avenue bridges over the Menomonee River?

Issue: A reader asked that question about the stone bridges over the Menomonee River just east of Serafino Square. He guessed the chain link fencing and the concrete barriers are designed to protect pedestrians or bicyclists during repair and construction.

"However, I haven't seen any trace of workers or reconstruction occurring at all during these past two months," he wrote. "How to justify such inaction?"

Status:Our reader is correct. Marion Sodnik of the department of public works said the city installed the protective barriers after workers observed crumbling stone. The chain link fencing helps keep any fragments from falling on the sidewalks, and the barriers protect the wall from any vehicle collision.

City Engineer Bill Wehrley said the city plans to do maintenance work on the bridges. First, though, he said the city must secure permits from Milwaukee County and the Departent of Natural Resources because the work will involve the river and the land on each side.

He said there is no specific date set for the work but estimated it may take a couple of months.

Send questions to news@cninow.com.

Commenting Policy

We welcome reader discussion but strive to keep things civil. Please see our discussion guidelines and terms of use for more information. If you see a comment that violates our guidelines, please flag it for review. If you have any other issues with our commenting system, please let us know.

Suburban News Roundup

E-mail Newsletter

Your link to the biggest stories in the suburbs delivered Thursday mornings.


Enter your e-mail address above and click "Sign Up Now!" to begin receiving your e-mail newsletter
Get the Newsletter!

Login or Register to manage all your newsletter preferences.

Archives

Advertisement

Local Crime Map

CONNECT    

Advertisement

Latest Photo Galleries