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Guest Editorial: The Toston Bridge
Author: Debi Randolph, Broadwater Commissioner

The Toston Bridge

It has come to my attention that there is a Facebook post about the Toston Bridge. Many comments in the post are INCORRECT. Sorry for the long post, but the FACTS matter. Here are some FACTS about the demolition of the bridge.

Over 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 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 been (pictures included) presented at public meetings over a few years. I believe there were articles in MT43 NEWS about the efforts to save the bridge. Many hours have been spent researching grants to save the bridge. The efforts of the residents and the commission were intense. NOBODY WANTED THE BRIDGE DEMOLISHED!!!

After several years of meetings and reports, it was determined that the bridge needed to be demolished.

I am writing this from home, so I don’t have the files with me, but it would have taken many, many millions to save it. (IF IT COULD BE SAVED).

MDT is paying for the demolition and all expenses related to the project. NOT THE COUNTY.

I saw comments about making 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 item on the commission agenda, “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 then.

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.

Thank you,

Debi Randolph, Broadwater County Commissioner District #1