VALENTINE, Neb. - Cherry County commissioners are in early talks with members of a growing Amish community south of Kilgore about whether the public should be allowed to use a newly built bridge over the Niobrara River.

The Amish community recently constructed the bridge, and county officials are considering establishing a formal easement that would allow public access. The nearest alternative, Anderson Bridge, has a low weight rating, prohibiting trucks from crossing.

Cherry County Highway Superintendent J.D. Osburn said if the new bridge were opened to the public, it would require a load rating and regular inspections, costing the county thousands of dollars. He also suggested the county could consider removing Anderson Bridge to avoid ongoing inspection costs. However, Commissioner Mike McConaughey questioned whether the bridge is a historic bridge.

No action was taken at Tuesday’s meeting. County Attorney Eric Scott plans to meet with members of the Amish community to gather more information before drafting an easement for future consideration.

Commissioners also discussed a proposal to name a new road in the Amish community. A community member suggested either Highland Trail or Meadowlark Lane. While no decision was made, commissioners leaned toward Highland Trail due to the existence of two similarly named roads that could cause confusion for emergency responders.