Work begins on replacement for Bonner Bridge

After years of negotiations the work to build a replacement for the 52-year-old Bonner Bridge is officially underway.

Preliminary work began Monday with crews clearing vegetation at the south end of the bridge along both sides of N.C. Highway 12.

Eventually, they will widen the road at the base of the bridge to accommodate traffic shifts that will be put in place during construction.

Construction is set to begin next month. It's expected to take three years.