New Blind Lake bridge opens in time for boating season
by Bruce Brown
The new bridge spanning the channel between Half Moon Lake and Blind Lake has been completed on schedule. It replaces a 100-year-old, dilapidated, wooden bridge. In deference to boaters, the Department of Natural Resources planned the timing of the bridge replacement to avoid limiting waterway access during the boating season.
The floating erosion control barriers around the construction site were removed on April 24, opening the channel for boat traffic. Construction, by Miller LS Bridge Construction of Portland, Michigan, began a year ago and dauntlessly continued throughout the winter. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) from the Pinckney Recreation Area initiated and supervised the project.
The vegetation around the bridge that was disturbed by construction is being replanted with native species. Depending on the ever-changing water level, the passage under the new bridge is approximately 1 foot higher and 6 feet wider than before.
At 68 acres, Blind Lake is one of the smaller lakes on the chain that includes Half Moon, Bruin, Patterson, Blind, Watson, Round, Woodburn, and Highland Lakes. For reference, adjacent Half Moon Lake measures 236 acres according to the michigan.gov/dnr site.
The DNR will be monitoring how increased boat traffic impacts shoreline erosion, wildlife, and boat safety on Blind Lake. Plans for increased marine patrols by DNR Conservation Officers are also underway. Senior Marine Safety Deputy Jesse Smith, who supervises the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Marine Safety Section, indicated they hope to increase patrols on Blind Lake.
