Spanish Fork bridge plan is called flawed

SPANISH FORK — A proposed bridge that would span the Spanish Fork River would be more expensive if built at the spot the city has identified as its ideal location, according to a developer.

John Smiley, developer of the Quail Hollow subdivision, wanted to build the bridge so residents of the neighborhood could easily cross over to the city's new sports park. In the past year, however, the city's preferred site has changed several times. The council will meet tonight at 6 at City Hall to discuss bridge plans.

Smiley says his intent was to build the bridge for Quail Hollow residents, but the present site works better for residents of another proposed subdivision.

If built at the city's preferred site, the bridge span would have to be 140 feet longer and will also require a center support. That could be a problem because the location is in a known flood area, he said.