CHRISTIAN COUNTY, Mo. – A 112-year-old bridge in Christian County is officially closed to the public.
The Green Bridge in Ozark is located on Smyrna Road crossing over the Finley River. Now people need to use a different route to get across.
People say although they understand “why” the bridge is being closed, they are sad to see it go.
The Green Bridge in Ozark was originally built in 1912. Despite multiple repairs over the years, it has reached the end of its life.
Katrina Green is a member of the Green family, the same family the bridge is named after.
“I know it probably needs to be replaced,” Green said. “But, you know, it’s just a beautiful bridge.”
The Christian County Commission was hoping for a different outcome. They had planned to have the existing bridge open until a new one could be built, but that isn’t the reality.
Scott Gaither also has a special connection to the Green Bridge.
“It’s named for my great great grandfather who donated the land on this side of the river for the bridge to be built,” Gaither said. “that said, you know, 112 years is a pretty good run.”