Newport to Fund Purple People Bridge Support Towers During Search for Permanent Fix
Newport continues its efforts to stabilize and restore the Purple People Bridge by entering a short-term rental agreement with LRT Restoration Technologies, LLC. This contract ensures the emergency shoring system supporting a damaged masonry pier remains in place while permanent repair plans progress.
The city, which officially assumed ownership of the bridge in September, is now directly responsible for maintaining and inspecting the temporary support structure. The shoring tower, originally installed by the Purple People Bridge Company in 2024 after serious structural distress was found, remains essential to the bridge’s safety.
“This is shoring that was put up last year by the Purple People Bridge Company,” said Newport Assistant Manager Brian Steffen. “We’ve since inherited that shoring expense while we seek out permanent repairs for the bridge.”
According to city officials, the shoring system plays a dual role—providing temporary stabilization and serving as part of the lifting mechanism for realignment and repair during future restoration work. The decision by the city commission aims to keep the bridge structurally secure while long-term funding and design efforts continue.
Author’s Summary
Newport formalizes an agreement to maintain the Purple People Bridge’s emergency supports, ensuring stability and safety as permanent restoration efforts advance.