The only Muskingum River bridge crossing between the towns of McConnelsville & Malta and Philo & Duncan Falls has reopened a year ahead of schedule, in Gaysport.

Now that the bridge project and nearby road construction have been completed, North Star Pizzeria will also reopen.

On the last day of November, the Gaysport Bridge reopened to traffic, a year ahead of schedule but to little fanfare.

A grand reopening celebration will be held at a later date, but a delay in the delivery of lighting that will be affixed to the bridge separated that event from its opening to vehicular travelers.

The previous bridge was built in 1955, which replaced an even earlier bridge, and was repaired throughout its years of service.

It was limited to one lane in 2015 and then closed entirely in 2021 due to structural concerns.

Work on the replacement bridge began in 2022, more details about that can be found in our previous article.

Due to both the bridge being closed and ODOT work on State Route 60 in the area, North Star Pizzeria and Restaurant in Gaysport closed at the end of March.

They will now reopen the established this Friday, December 15. Hours will be 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday.