Stone Bridge Advisory Committee 3/2/26

Stone Bridge Advisory Committee Meeting Recap - March 2, 2026

The Stone Bridge Advisory Committee convened on March 2nd for a productive meeting focused primarily on the design and restoration of the town's historic Stone Bridges, with particular attention given to the Lookout Road Bridge. The meeting, attended by committee members representing diverse backgrounds including music therapy, church ministry, and community involvement, fostered a collaborative atmosphere centered on preserving Montreat's unique character.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to exploring design options for the Lookout Road Bridge, presented by Design Lead Nancy Thomas. Discussions centered on key aesthetic and structural elements including the bridge's parapet (protective wall), wing walls, veneer restoration, and potential addition of a baseboard. Committee members engaged in lively debate regarding the best approach for these elements, weighing options such as replicating original square columns versus considering round ones, and debating whether to restore existing veneer or replace it with a new style like river rock or cobblestone. A key concern raised throughout the discussion was ensuring adequate visibility for drivers navigating the Lookout Road intersection, prompting consideration of potential design adjustments to improve safety.

The committee made several key decisions during the meeting, beginning with unanimous approval of both the agenda and the minutes from their previous meeting on January 20th. Most importantly, they agreed to move forward with requesting proposals from stonemason contractors who can execute the restoration work. Nancy Thomas was tasked with creating a color rendering of the proposed Lookout Road Bridge design, allowing committee members to visualize the final product before making further decisions. Finally, a draft brochure outlining the project’s goals and fundraising efforts was presented by Mason Blake and Nancy Thomas, with plans to distribute it at the upcoming Monterey Cottagers annual meeting.

While no formal public comments were received, the discussion itself reflected a strong focus on community impact and preserving Montreat's unique charm. Committee members consistently emphasized the importance of a visually appealing bridge that enhances the town’s character, demonstrating their commitment to a project that benefits both residents and visitors.

Looking ahead, several action items were identified. Nancy Thomas will develop the color rendering of the Lookout Road Bridge design. Town staff, including Savannah, will prepare and distribute a Request for Proposals (RFP) to qualified stonemason contractors. The Monterey Cottagers will distribute the project brochure and explore options for online availability. The committee’s next meeting is scheduled for April 6th at 10:00 AM at Town Hall, where they will review the color rendering and discuss contractor proposals. This meeting signifies a crucial step forward in preserving Montreat's historic Stone Bridges and ensuring their continued beauty and functionality for years to come.