Visit Bridge Street during bridge closing

Star Beacon

Tue, May 13 2008

— ASHTABULA — The historic Ashtabula harbor lift bridge is closed and will remain closed through mid-September, while construction crews begin to rehabilitate it.
During the closure, motorists will be detoured Route 531 to Route 45 to Route 20 to Route 11. Access to all residences and establishments will be maintained at all times throughout construction.
While the lift bridge is closed, the merchants are taking advantage of the situation to offer special events.
“Our plans are very aggressive,” said Ren Carlisle, owner of Carlisle’s Home In The Harbor located at 1005 Bridge Street.
Beginning Memorial Day weekend and ending Labor Day — every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Bridge Street will have something exciting and family friendly going on.
“Our plans include musical entertainment every Friday night; a street fair on Saturdays with something special for kids; and Sunday will bring the return of the Farmer’s Market,” Carlisle said.
Sponsored by The Silver Branch, Salon 1020 and Voice Magazine, Friday nights will include “Dancing in the Streets” with an open mic and musician jam session.
“It is our intention to give visitors and local people something fun to do every weekend,” Carlisle said.
The bridge will be placed in the upright position while the work is being completed.
Included in this $5.9 million project are mechanical and structural repairs and painting of the bridge. The entire project is scheduled to be completed by the fall 2008.