Citing recent safety concerns, North Platte Police are cracking down on pedestrians crossing the South River Bridge.

Construction began on the bridge in mid-April, and is expected to take until Fall of this year to complete.  The Nebraska Department of Roads announced that pedestrian traffic across the bridge would be prohibited during “Phase 1” of the project.

However, many pedestrians have ignored the posted notice, and are using the roadway to cross the bridge.  In an effort to keep pedestrians from walking across the bridge and impeding traffic, police say the “Sidewalk Closed” signs will be replaced with “No Trespassing” signs.

Officer Rodney Brown says the police department will be notified, and will enforce any violations.

Brown said bicycles are allowed to ride over the bridge with the flow of traffic, but said they are only permitted to use the open lane of traffic.  He said cyclists are not allowed to use what remains of the old walkway or any other method to cross the bridge.

As for pedestrians, officials say they can borrow a bike, seek another path or take advantage of the city Public Transit service.

“Walking in the roadway and impeding traffic is not permissible,” Brown said.

Public Transit can be contacted at 308-532-1370.