MILTON - After 72 years in service, the state says it's time to replace one of Highway 90's bridges in East Milton.

History buffs say the Marquis Bayou Bridge should be saved.

Channel Three's Bill Pearson has more on the debate between saving history and saving taxpayers' money.

Kim Macarthy loves every aspect of the historic downtown area, including the Marquis Bayou Bridge.

Kim Macarthy said, "Yes, it's small. It may seem insignificant in the scheme of things, however there is a danger of what the future impact to downtown Milton historically could be based on what happens right here."

And that's why people like Kim are against a State Department of Transportation plan to replace the Marquis Bayou Bridge within the next few years.

Kim says her group, Main Street Milton, understands the need for a new bridge, but they don't want to see the old bridge destroyed.

Kim Macarthy said, "It would be nice if we could maintain this structure and find some way to do that and have it be a pedestrian and bicycle bridge only."

DOT says it cannot afford to keep the bridge no matter what.

But it's willing to turn over ownership to a local government, provided the local government is willing to cover upkeep and liability issues.

Santa Rosa County's administrator says some commissioner may want to save this old structure, but they may find it a difficult job, considering the tough financial times the county is currently in.

Hunter Walker said, "But, I think they're gonna be confronted with, again, reduced resources, dealing with other infrastructure we have now, much less taking on something that will have more ceremonial or sentimental value."

Kim Macarthy said, "I don't know what the cost of maintenance would be, but I understand they're trying to look out for the citizens."

Fans of this old bridge know it's a long shot, but they're gonna continue to fight to keep this bridge around.

Bill Pearson, Channel Three News.

The public can see FDOT's plans and ask questions about the project during a special meeting Thursday.

It will be held at 5:30 in the First Presbyterian Church.

That's on Elmira Street in Milton.Local Group Wants Historic Bridge to Stay Standing