The new bridge across the North Branch of the Little Wolf River in the Village of Iola officially opened on Tuesday, Oct. 13, with a 9 a.m. ribbon cutting.

Cost of the bridge to the Village of Iola is about $80,000. The State of Wisconsin is footing the bill for the remainder of the cost.

Representing the Village of Iola to cut the ribbon were Trustee Jim Rasmussen (center left) and President Joel Edler (center right). Trustee Pamela Parks (second from right) was also present. Representing the Iola Old Car Show are Mary Schwartz (far left), executive director assistant, and Ali Johnson (far right), digital content specialist. Also present were construction representatives.

Darcy Oligney brought his 1963 Chev Nova Super Sport Convertible and another car enthusiast drove his Volkswagon Beetle onto the bridge for background. Not shown but present were Charles and Nola Thompson in their 1964 Mercury Marauder and an antique green car driven by Clifford Schmidt.

The bridge took several months to build, during which time traffic was routed down West State Street to Town Line Road to Mill Street and onto Highway 49 and State Road 161.