Finally, on Tuesday night, he had something to smile about. Public Works Director Rob Hamlin told aldermen a meeting is scheduled sometime next week with representatives involved in the construction project. The project to replace the overhead walking bridge connecting Steinhagen Road and Wabash Street began in June 2007 when city officials, Norfolk and Southern Railroad representatives and concerned citizens met to discuss a plan to replace the existing span. The city was told at the time the project was a top priority for the railroad. Since then it has seen little progress. "Evidently, the railroad is finally making the move," Clark told The Record. "I am still really disappointed with the railroad. For something that was supposed to be important to the safety of the railroad and to our pedestrians and they didn't move any faster than this? After two years, you begin to wonder." Hamlin said the meeting will include officials from HDR Engineering and Boonslick Regional Planning Commission. The project was last discussed by city officials at a meeting Oct. 28 when Gregory Kuntz, a representative from HDR Engineering, was questioned about the stalled project. At the time, Kuntz said the railroad hadn't approved final design specifications. Since then, the railroad apparently has approved the design. Depending on how next week's meeting goes, the city could advertise for bids in the near future, Hamlin noted. "For safety, we are really glad to see it moving along," he said. The pedestrian bridge project is being funded by a $180,500 grant from the state's Community Development Block Grant program administered by the Missouri Department of Economic Development. The city of Warrenton is paying approximately $150,000. The current 130-foot structure allows for easy access for many individuals who want to reach area schools or businesses without having to walk next to Highway 47. "It will no doubt be safer," Clark said. "It is vital that we maintain at least a walk bridge across there. It's a good thing to get done."