'Happy Bridge Crossing to All:' Mayor Barnett Gets Poetic During Celebration

To Rochester Hills Mayor Bryan Barnett, Monday was a lot like Christmas. 

It was the opening of the Livernois Bridge to through-traffic — a day more than a year and a half in the making. The bridge had been partially closed since February 2011 when it was found to be in advanced deteriorating condition. It was closed completely in July of this year, when a total rebuilding began. It re-opened on Monday.

See Livernois Bridge Reopens in Rochester Hills.

Barnett said that as he was thinking about what to say on Sunday night at a planned ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday morning, his excitement over the occasion reminded him of Christmas Eve, so he wrote this poem, which he read during the event.

‘Twas the night before the opening, right here on this bridge

Not a creature was stirring, not even a smidge

The street lights were hung - over the road with great care

In hopes that people could soon cross - from here to there

The residents were nestled all snug in their beds

While visions of reduced commute times danced in their heads

When out on the road, there arose such a clatter

I quickly called Craig Bryson to see what was the matter

The bridge was complete - it would be done in a flash

They finished on time and spent all the cash

So schedule the opening and schedule it quick

Somebody get Kohler, Jamian, Fowkes & even Erik

There are people to thank, who played part in this game.

Please know we appreciate you as I call out your name.

Now workers! Now residents! City council and crew!

Road Commission, Legislators! And even the DEQ!

Thank you for money, for hard work, and for patience this fall

Thank you, thank you, thank you all!

Well it’s done. It’s over. It’s finally through.

And I’m thinking like probably many of you

I’m getting my keys and I’ll try this bridge out

I’m clearing my throat & preparing to shout

You’ll hear me exclaim as I drive out of sight

“Happy bridge crossing to all and to construction in 2012 … Good Night!”

Are you excited about the bridge re-opening?