Auburn officials outlined how they will cover the nearly $4 million shortfall for the Lake Avenue bridge rehabilitation. Originally estimated at $4.9 million, the project’s cost rose to $8.4 million due to additional deterioration.
To close the funding gap, the city will roll over more than $2 million from its 2025 road program into 2026, with $1 million allocated annually for the bridge. The remaining cost will be covered through bonds after state and federal funding requests were denied.
The project, aimed at rehabilitating the 70-year-old bridge, is set to complete its design and bidding phase this year, with construction beginning in 2026. Officials are working to manage costs while ensuring project integrity.