DECATUR, Ind. — Adams County officials say they have identified a previously undocumented vehicular bridge inside a Decatur park (Hanna Nuttman park), prompting an immediate inspection and the likelihood of new signage and load‑rating requirements.
County Engineer Nate Rumschlag told commissioners Wednesday that the small structure — now designated Bridge 45 — was discovered during a spring review of pedestrian bridges. The span sits inside a city‑owned park area and connects the pavilion grounds to the west side of the property. Because it carries vehicle traffic, it must be included in the county’s official bridge inventory.
“It has not been load rated and I have no plans of this structure,” Rumschlag said. “A bridge is a bridge whether it’s in a park or on a state road.”
USI Consultants inspected the bridge Monday as part of the county’s biennial inspection cycle. Rumschlag said he has notified the City of Decatur and the fire department, noting that emergency access could be affected depending on the findings.
Without construction plans, the county may be required to post weight limits, add warning signs or restrict certain vehicles until engineers determine the bridge’s capacity.
Commissioners noted the unusual nature of the discovery.
“You don’t always find a new bridge very often — certainly not one hiding in plain sight,” Rumschlag said.
