The species could make it difficult for officials to rehabilitate the bridge footings
An environmental study was done last week on the Broad Avenue Bridge in Albany to see what kind of wildlife, if any, would be affected by work on the bridge.
Divers found an endangered species called the "Purple Bankclimber mussel". The mussel has been found in the Flint River before, and its presence will make things difficult for those wanting to upgrade and repair the bridge. Experts say the mussels are a good indicator of a healthy aquatic system--saying they're natural filters that feed on algae and help purify the water. The mussels are also a food source for many wildlife such as racoons, birds and some fish.
Department of Transportation officials say it could be ten to fourteen months before they are able to go in and rehabilitate the bridge footings.
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