SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — City engineers will seek an exception under historic preservation rules to demolish and replace a deteriorating bridge in Santa Fe's downtown district.
The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that the engineers believe the Defouri Street Bridge is becoming unsafe and that the city can't do any more work to extend its life.
Officials say it would be a hardship for drivers for the city to let the bridge remain in its current condition.
The bridge that sits over the Santa Fe River was originally built in the late 1930s and then reconstructed in 1959.
It has been identified for replacement in state Department of Transportation bridge inspection reports since 1990
The Historic Districts Review Board will consider the city's request Jan. 14.