The bridge was reopened on May 27 2006
for more information and pictures go to www.slvdweller.com and click on Mesita
According to Costilla County Commissioner Joe Gallegos, the county is currently in the process of obtaining grants for the restoration of the bridge. Known as the Old State Bridge, the Lobatos Bridge, or the Costilla Crossing, the bridge has been listed on the National Registry of Historic Structures (#85000194) since 1985.
The bridge was built in 1892 by Joseph F. Thomas, a civil engineer and the Conejos County Surveyor living in Manassa at the time. The bridge cost $8,400 and was purchased from the Wrought Iron Bridge Company.
According to his grandson, Clarke Echols, Joseph F. Thomas, received a commendation from the Colorado State Legislature for completing the construction ahead of schedule and under budget. It is said that at the time, it was the longest, highest, double-span steel-truss bridge west of the Mississippi River. His son, Ivan M. Thomas still lives north of Manassa less than a mile from where he father was living at the time the bridge was constructed.
More information at www.slvdweller.com
The Lobato (Costilla Crossing) Bridge has been restored and rededicated in May of 2006.