While work continues on the bridge at the marooned Crossings Mall in Elkview, some employees have been allowed to cross it to get to their stores, Kanawha planning director Steve Neddo said Tuesday.
The mall has been closed since last year's June flood washed out the culvert bridge that had been the only access into the shopping center. Neddo said contractor David Alvarez told him he's planning to have the bridge open to the public July 31 or Aug. 1.
"He's really worked hard to do that," Neddo said. "It's amazing how much he's done in so little time."
Kanawha County Commission President Kent Carper said the opening could happen sooner, maybe by the end of the week.
Neddo said Kmart employees have been accessing their store regularly through an access point other than the bridge. On Monday, there were employees working at the Little General gas station and Picanha American Brazilian Steakhouse, Neddo said. Kroger employees also have been there.
But Neddo said the bridge is not completely finished and people generally should avoid crossing it until the work is done.
"We would rather the public stay away and allow these people to safely finish the bridge," Neddo said.