Construction for the new Gus Manolis Bridge near Selvester’s Cafe-by-the-Creek began this morning and will continue through October 1.

Last September, a tree along the Big Chico Creek fell and destroyed the bridge, as previously reported by the Orion.

“Our pressure is to get this bridge in by October 1,” said Project Manager Stephanie Nixon. “That’s permitting. That’s when the last day is because of the rains and water coming down.”

During construction, the bridge will be placed on the Ayres lawn near Kendall Hall while the bridge’s foundation and concrete is set.

“I don’t have a date to say for sure yet, but we have to do some drilling and sometimes things break and that takes time.”

Construction for new railings for Selvester’s and bridge ramps will begin after the October 1 deadline for bridge instillation.

“It’s gonna be awhile before the bridge is actually able for people to walk on,” said Nixon.

Temporarily closed pathways and alternative paths of travel will be visibly marked and other bridges on campus should be used during construction.

Jenice Tupolo can be reached at [email protected] or @JayTupolo on Twitter.