In 1979, a state report determined that the bridge was a "dangerous old bridge which is being used by loads in excess of the posting and could collapse if not replaced." In 1981, the State Historical Preservation Office of Iowa was notified that the bridge would be eligible for inclusion in the National Register.
In 1983, the Cilek Bridge was built and replaced the "old Sutliff Bridge" for all vehicular traffic.
A movement began to save the 85-year old landmark from demolition as the Sutliff residents once again rallied around their beloved bridge. In 1984, the non-profit Sutliff Bridge Authority (SBA) was formed. The SBA signed a 50 year lease with the Johnson County Board of Supervisors for $1.
The SBA would be responsible for the Bridge's maintenance to preserve it as a historical site.
During the next nearly 25 years, it was used as a pedestrian bridge and provided visitors a unique observation point to view the fast flowing Cedar River. With picnic tables fitted on the bridge deck a person could rest and reflect.
It retained an exceptionally high degree of both historical and structural integrity and was an outstanding example of an uncommon early wagon truss design. It became one of the longest surviving triple-span Parker Truss Bridges in the state.
On September 11, 1999, the County placed the 102 year old structure on the National Register of Historic Places with a dedication ceremony.
Ray Brannaman was quoted as saying "Our hope is that it's never torn down."
In 1983, the Cilek Bridge was built and replaced the "old Sutliff Bridge" for all vehicular traffic.
A movement began to save the 85-year old landmark from demolition as the Sutliff residents once again rallied around their beloved bridge. In 1984, the non-profit Sutliff Bridge Authority (SBA) was formed. The SBA signed a 50 year lease with the Johnson County Board of Supervisors for $1.
The SBA would be responsible for the Bridge's maintenance to preserve it as a historical site.
During the next nearly 25 years, it was used as a pedestrian bridge and provided visitors a unique observation point to view the fast flowing Cedar River. With picnic tables fitted on the bridge deck a person could rest and reflect.
It retained an exceptionally high degree of both historical and structural integrity and was an outstanding example of an uncommon early wagon truss design. It became one of the longest surviving triple-span Parker Truss Bridges in the state.
On September 11, 1999, the County placed the 102 year old structure on the National Register of Historic Places with a dedication ceremony.
Ray Brannaman was quoted as saying "Our hope is that it's never torn down."
