ODNR celebrates Todd Fork Bridge renovation
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) recently celebrated the completion of the Todd Fork Bridge renovation at Little Miami State Park with a ribbon cutting event.
The historic bridge, located in Morrow, is part of the Little Miami State Park’s multi-use scenic trail, which is a paved corridor spanning 50 miles through the park.
"The Todd Fork Bridge stands as a testament to our rich history and the community's dedication to preserving it," said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. "This renovation not only restores the bridge’s structural integrity but also enhances the overall experience for the countless trail users who rely on it."
The bridge, originally constructed in the late 1800s, has been a crucial connector over Todd Fork, a tributary of the Little Miami River. Approximately 100,000 visitors use the Little Miami Scenic Trail each month.
The $959,867 project started in early March and included a series of essential upgrades:
• Minor structural repairs to bridge steel
• Sand blasting to clean the bridge (with full containment to protect the environment)
• Re-painting the bridge
• Cleaning and sealing of the concrete abutment
• Replacing the wood railing
• Re-sealing the asphalt on the bridge
• Replacing asphalt on a large adjacent section of the trail.
Funding for the renovation came from a combination of capital funding from both the FY21-22 and FY23-24 budgets, showcasing the commitment to preserving the historical integrity and functionality of the bridge. Memorable Morrow, a nonprofit organization for the historic preservation and revitalization of the business district of Morrow, partnered with ODNR and submitted the first capital request.
The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft provides exceptional outdoor recreation and boating opportunities by balancing outstanding customer service, education and conservation of Ohio’s 76 state parks and waterways.
In 2024, join ODNR in celebrating 75 years of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and providing outstanding and award-winning recreational opportunities.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
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