Construction has been hampered by bad soil conditions (blue clay) but the deadline reportedly hasn’t changed.

While we can all agree that up-to-date electrical works are a good idea, the fact that the present system has lasted the better part of a century is remarkable. We should be grateful that this system has given us so many decades of life. We could probably say it has paid for itself quite handsomely over the years.

But parts wear out and technology improves and it comes time to bring in a new electrical system that we hope is even more reliable.

But this should not be used as an excuse to get a new bridge any more than the need for new tires be used in order to get a new car.

Your reply is really valid – and raises the question about integrity and accountability within the engineering department and City Hall. IF (big if) this was a realized intent, to let the Johnson Street Bridge fall into disrepair and force a replacement, then there should be a full independent investigation – and action against those responsible.

You are also correct – why add-on plates, when the really corroded beams can simple be replaced?

We learned that plate rust is the main culprit–deep layered rust at the core, beneath the surface–often hidden by surface rust and paint.

My point is that City Hall, by intent or forgetfulness, decided years ago that the bridge was a beater and was not worth keeping. How others valued the bridge apparently played no role in the decision.

Speaking of wrong: I don’t entirely agree with your beater definition: “A beater is a car that has passed the point where preventative maintenance is cost-effective.” There’s more to it than that – for example, the level of knowledge that a person has about objects/ artifacts. I don’t think it’s possible to have the sort of objective standard that your definition suggests.

I believe that highly subjective aspects go into each individual’s definition of “a beater.” Thus, for example, an ignorant or callow person would have few problems defining a Bugatti as “a beater,” while a knowledgeable person would never do that. That’s because an ignorant or callow person hasn’t got a clue about real value, whereas someone who is informed about the nature and quality of artifacts does.

You don’t say this, but we all know that Mayor Fortin identified the Johnson Street Bridge as “a beater.” Draw your own conclusions about what I think of the mayor’s level of informedness.