BAY CITY, MI – The Independence Bridge will have daytime closures all next week, as it has been consistently closed during overnight hours for maintenance and high-speed testing.
The important Bay City structure will close from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Monday, March 24, 2025, through Saturday, March 29, 2025. Local officials have not provided a specific reason for the daytime closures, amid rising frustration among residents.
This particular bridge is one of four drawbridges in Bay City, and notably, it is one of two leased by Bay City Bridge Partners, who also charge tolls for its use. The ongoing closures have sparked significant backlash, with many community members expressing their dissatisfaction through a recent class-action lawsuit against Bay City Bridge Partners and the city.
According to the lawsuit, the bridge has faced frequent closures during night hours since the beginning of 2025. Residents have alleged that this pattern may potentially violate the city’s lease agreement with the bridge partners.
Despite assurances from Bay City Bridge Partners that the Independence Bridge would remain accessible without major disruptions, the inconsistencies in the bridge's schedule have raised suspicions. Critics argue that the lack of transparency from both the city and the bridge partners raises more questions than answers.
The lawsuit reflects broader concerns over infrastructure reliability in the region, prompting citizens to push for accountability and clearer communication from both the bridge company and local authorities.
Bay City residents are now left questioning how they will plan their daily commutes and travel across the river during this unanticipated closure. The frequent disruptions not only hinder local traffic but also pose challenges for emergency services needing access across the bridge.
Local officials have yet to respond meaningfully to these public sentiments or the ongoing legal issues, leaving many feeling unheard in the wake of rising frustrations.
The situation surrounding the Independence Bridge continues to evolve as community members and local entities navigate the complexities of transportation amid growing discontent.
With the closures looming next week, many are bracing for the impact on daily life in Bay City. Continued monitoring of the bridge's maintenance operations and local governance will likely be crucial as residents seek answers and push for necessary changes.
