Neighbors Upset By Plans For New Bridge Over I-25

DENVER (CBS4) - A group of neighbors are teaming up against the city of Denver to protest plans for a new bike and pedestrian bridge.

The city says the $8 million, 275 foot bridge has been in the works for 12 years. It would span across Interstate 25 and would make life easier for people getting on and off the trains at the light rail station near Colorado and Evans.

Roberta Holbrook is among those who live in the neighborhood the bridge will be built in. She says the bridge could eliminate 60 percent of the parking on their street.

Neighbors also have concerns that their view outside will be blocked and that their property values could be negatively impacted.

"It's hard to make the sacrifice in your neighborhood when there's no proof that it's needed or wanted," Holbrook said.

The group is concerned the bridge may be a waste of government money and that no one in their neighborhood will benefit.

"If they are not going to use it why are they building it? Who's watching the money? There are so many other places for the city to spend this money. It's $8 million. It doesn't make sense," Holbrook said.

City officials say the bridge would be used frequently.

"The commuters that are trying to access the light rail transit station, employees that work at the (light rail stop), folks that are just wanting to go to the movies and visit the restaurants there," said Crissy Fanganello with Denver Public Works.

The city is holding a public meeting to discuss the bridge plan at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday. It will take place at Dave and Busters at 2000 South Colorado Blvd.

Construction could start on the project in mid 2012.