There was hours of debate Tuesday night over the future of a historic bridge in Stamford.

The West Main Street Bridge is showing its age -- there is a lot of rust and deterioration.

One plan would use a $2 million grant to renovate the bridge for pedestrians and bicyclists. But some say they would prefer that the bridge be rebuilt and open to traffic.

Officials say the money and contract are ready to go and that the bridge could be repaired by next spring. They add that even if the city decides to go with the pedestrian plan, emergency vehicles would still be able to use it.

The motion did not pass by the end of the meeting, and the full council will take up the issue on Sept. 4.