DOT says Sunset bridge construction to start soon

SUNSET BEACH (AP) — Engineers plan to begin work this month on a new high-rise bridge that will replace a wooden pontoon bridge connecting Sunset Beach to the mainland.

Department of Transportation engineer Joe Blair said the first sign of construction will be land clearing on the mainland side of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.

The bridge is scheduled for completion in 2010.

The $31 million bridge contract was awarded in January after 30 years of dispute. Bridge opponents concerned about the environmental impact of building a new bridge asked a federal judge to halt the project last year, but their request was denied.

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