Helen Awards Bid for New Pedestrian Bridge

HELEN, Ga. – The long-awaited pedestrian bridge across the Chattahoochee River in Helen moved one step closer to reality Tuesday when the city commission voted unanimously to approve the bid of $586,022 submitted by Square Deal Enterprises.

The Sautee-based company entered the lowest of four bids received. The project was advertised on the Georgia Mountains Association web site as well as the local newspaper. It will be funded in part by the Georgia Department of Transportation Federal Transportation Enhancement Fund.

The bridge will be built on the opposite side of Main Street from the bridge in front of Paul’s Steakhouse. It will replace an existing bridge and will connect the sidewalks between The Castle Inn and Café International.

The project includes:

• Demolition of the existing concrete bridge:
• Construction of a 157-foot Pedestrian Bridge, including pilings and trusses;
• Installation of 4 pedestrian lights, including associated electrical;
• Construction of approximately 200 square feet of brick pavers sidewalk;
• Construction of approximately 34 square yards of concrete sidewalk;
• Replacement relocation and addition of existing stormwater structures and piping.

City Manager Jerry Wilkins has long expressed his desire to have the bridge completed before Christmas.

The work will begin as soon as Square Deal receives the notice to proceed from the city and is expected to take about 180 days.

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