The city will be spending up to $2,737,990 in the first phase of major improvements for the highly popular Walnut Street Bridge.

The contract for the work went to Bell and Associates Construction of Brentwood, Tn.

Justin Holland, public works administrator, said the work will include replacing 20-30 deteriorating deck boards.

Most of the contract is for work on the metal structure above and below the deck. This will include welding repairs and fixing cracked rocks.

Mr. Holland said the bridge will remain open during the work, though some parts may be sectioned off at times.

He said the work will begin in September and continue through next February.

The historic 1891 span has been listed as one of America's 10 best public spaces.

