Find yourself in need of a bridge to cross a creek or river on your property? Maybe you’re a council person looking for something distinctive to dress up your cityscape. Could be you’re just in the mood for some new lawn ornaments at your place.
The Mississippi Department of Transportation has a deal for you: The Mississippi Highway 57 Red Creek Bridge, located in Jackson County near the George County line, is yours for the taking.
Built in 1959, the steel truss structure is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, but it must be removed and replaced in compliance with federal regulations.
Individuals or organizations may submit relocation and preservation proposals for review by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History, the Federal Highway Administration and MDOT. If a relocation proposal is approved, MDOT will reimburse the recipient the relocation cost provided it does not exceed the estimated cost of the demolition as determined by MDOT.
The transfer deed will include preservation covenants which will require the new owner to preserve and maintain the structure and its architectural elements in accordance with standards established by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior. In addition, potential recipients will assume all legal and financial responsibilities associated with the bridge.
Interested parties should present formal proposals by Sept. 1 to: Kelly Castleberry, MDOT District Engineer, P.O. Box 551, Hattiesburg, MS 39403, (601) 544-6511.