Preservationists could derail bridge demolition, despite permit.
Plans to demolish the train drawbridge on the Black River could depend on what the State Historic Preservation Office advises the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The Port Huron Yacht Club purchased the train bridge — a skyline landmark to Sarnia residents for 80 years — in December 2011. It received a demolition permit from Port Huron in January to remove the bridge, but has been waiting months to hear back from the corps before moving forward.
Spokeswoman Lynn Rose said the corps is consulting with the State Historic Preservation Office before issuing the permit.
“From what I understand, this bridge has some historic interest and could possibly be a national historic site,” she said. “We have to confer with the State Historic Preservation Office before making a determination.”
Martha MacFarlane-Faes, deputy state historic preservation officer, said the last time the state heard from the corps about the bridge was in October 2010.
“At that time, we advised that demolition of the bridge would have an adverse effect on the historic significance of the (3.3 acre) site,” she said. “I would expect to hear from them again if there is a new permit being discussed.”
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