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Residents living around the Schneider Slab expressed concern that the old structure (pictured here on Sept. 24) would be removed once work on a new bridge crossing was completed by TxDOT contractors. Contributed -
The old Schneider Slab is inches away from the mid point of the new bridge on CR 103 in Llano County, hastening workers to remove portions of the structures once the new crossing is complete. Contributed
Work is progressing on a new bridge adjacent to the Schneider Slab Crossing on the Llano River, raising some questions about the fate of the old structure, considered a water recreation spot for local families.
TxDOT contracted with Hodge and Son to build the elevated bridge crossing spanning the Llano River at CR 103, about 8 miles from Castell off CR 152.
The state entity earmarked approximately $1.6 million for the construction.
Several years ago, residents debated the historical significance of the slab as talk of a replacement bridge surfaced.
Citizens along with county officials at the time requested preserving and/or keeping the slab as a pedestrian crossing, as others contended a new structure was necessary for safety.
Texas Department of Transportation spokesman Bradley Wheelis offered details about what the new bridge – which is 30 ft. wide by 405-ft. long – entails.
“TxDOT is replacing the existing 9-foot-wide crossing at the Llano River, which has been unstable since the October 2018 floods,” he said in a statement. “TxDOT worked with Llano County, offering three options for consideration. The county chose this alignment/location.”
At the time of initial talks Llano County pledged matching funds of approximately $140,000 for culvert and other maintenance work.
The project is expected to be completed in winter 2021.
As for the fate of the old slab, the project appeared to offer a plan which would keep remnants of the old structure.
“The old slab will be removed as part of construction,” Wheelis stated. “The approach slabs will be left in place at the old crossing so people can still walk out on the rock slab.”