From time to time, it may be necessary to close The Dublin Link pedestrian and bicycle bridge due to weather or other safety-related reasons. It is the intent of the City to keep the bridge open and accessible to the public when possible.
If inclement weather makes the bridge unsafe, City of Dublin staff will close the bridge until conditions improve and safety concerns are no longer present. Staff will monitor the bridge’s condition during a winter event and will make the determination if the bridge will close.
Bridge Operational Status
The primary factor that determines if The Link should close during inclement weather is the chance for ice to form along the bridge, which creates an unsafe environment for pedestrians and bicyclists. If the weather consists of a dry snow that can be easily removed and ice is not present, then the bridge may close temporarily for snow removal but will reopen for pedestrians to cross.
FAQs:
Can The Dublin Link be plowed?
Yes! The City has a variety of specialized equipment that can be used to remove the snow from the bridge.
Can de-icing products or salt be used on the bridge to melt ice?
No. The bridge cannot be treated with corrosive de-icing products, as it will damage the bridge deck and steel structure. It is the City’s goal to protect the steel frame of the bridge to extend its longevity and de-icing products will negatively impact the bridge’s lifespan. Additionally, this policy reduces the amount of run-off into the Scioto River.
Can environmentally friendly products, such as sand, be used on the bridge to melt ice?
No. Products like sand can clog the drains on the bridge, which will make it difficult for melting ice to empty before it refreezes. Additionally, due to the pitch of the bridge and open nature of the structure, this policy reduces the amount of run-off into the Scioto River. Last, wet sand may affect cyclists and the slippery surface can pose a hazard.
After the bridge closes, when will it reopen?
The Link will reopen when City staff determines that ice no longer presents a safety concern to pedestrians. As our crews cannot apply de-icing products to the bridge to speed up the melting process, crew members depend mostly upon the sun to naturally melt the ice following other snow removal measures.
How will I know if the bridge is open or closed?
You can check this webpage for updates prior to your visit to The Dublin Link. If the bridge is closed, signage and barricades will be placed at the east and west sides of the bridge.
In addition to weather-related closures, the bridge may close at any time for a number of reasons, including safety-related concerns, maintenance, cleaning, contractor closure requests and more.
For more information on The Dublin Link pedestrian bridge, please visit http://bridgestreet.dublinohiousa.gov/pedestrian-bridge/
