New Boulder Ave. bridge set to open February 1st

The new Boulder Avenue bridge connecting the middle of downtown to the Brady district is nearly complete.

It will replace the original bridge that was build in 1929 over the railroad tracks.

That original bridge was torn down in 2009 when it became too dangerous for drivers and pedestrians to cross.

City of Tulsa Field Engineering Manager Terry Ball says the new bridge is structurally complete.

Ball tells KRMG that the installation of pedestrian handrails and some decorative artwork are the two big items that remain before the bridge is finished.

Crews are also waiting on some warmer temperatures before painting stripes on the bridge.

Ball says the paint used by the city can't be laid down unless temperatures are above 50 degrees.

The bridge connects First to Archer streets.

Construction was funded by the 2008 Fix Our Streets ales tax.

Crews began working on the new bridge in January 2012.

Work is expected to be completed February 1st.

City officials tell KRMG that plans are being made for an official ribbon-cutting party on February 4th.