Waterfront Plaza Allegan, Michigan
river front walk
a longtime industrial town, allegan s downtown waterfront fell disrepair , environmental pollution late 1960s , 1970s. potential loss of aging iron bridge cause citizenry of allegan focus on community history, en masse, event solidified allegan s view toward community architectural preservation. second street bridge in allegan whipple-trough truss bridge erected king iron bridge company (cleveland, ohio) in 1886. used two-lane bridge until discussions demise began in 1970s, city of allegan experienced unprecedented , consistent outcry not demolish prominent downtown trademark. city planners commented downtown district better served more modern, two-lane structure, common progressive view has resulted in demise of thousands of historic structures nationwide. result of community efforts , successful application federal grants, second street bridge renewed century of service. noticeable modifications installation of wood in decking of bridge, reduction of traffic 1 lane , installation of traffic lights @ both ends. allegan received national recognition in form of national historic preservation award, 1 of fifteen such recipients in united states. focus on preservation of downtown business district , timeless residential homes has continued theme in allegan since two-year bridge restoration (1981–1983).
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