The pedestrian bridge that connects East and West Campuses will be closed in summer, as it will undergo modernization at a cost of roughly $600,000.

The 30-year-old bridge will have new railing, a new deck and stronger legs to stand on, once construction is complete. The modernization was deemed necessary, because the wood is deteriorating.

Joe Sullivan, vice president of Business Services, calls the bridge a “critical artery, which we can’t afford to lose for a long time.”

Construction is expected to begin following finals week on May 25, and officials remain hopeful that construction will be completed before the start of summer school on June 15.

If not, then the school may choose to run a shuttle service to assist students and staff. However, Sullivan remains hopeful that it won’t come to that.

Cushman Contracting is expected to receive the contract, after turning in a bid of just under $500,000. However, Sullivan expects the costs to increase because of the many “unknowns.” He hopes construction costs will stay as close to $600,000 as possible.