A new partnership has been formed in South Haven to honor the iconic Nichols Bridge.

The Nichols Bridge was a covered bridge that was part of the Kal Haven Trail until last summer. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources removed the landmark as part of a repaving project on the trail from South Haven to Bloomingdale.

At the time, the South Haven Visitors Bureau received the remnants of the bridge with plans to use it in a new way at some point in the future.

Now, the South Haven Visitors Bureau, the DNR, and the South Haven Area Recreation Authority have announced plans to purchase a 49-acre property adjacent to the Kal-Haven Trail, formerly known as the Riverwoods development, so the former cover of the Nichols bridge can be reinstalled on a trail.

The partners hope the piece of the popular bridge can become a landmark in a new park. Ideas for the site include a small craft launch, a pavilion, and a mountain biking loop.

The three partners are now working to arrange the purchase of the property. They say including part of the Nichols Bridge there could make it available for photo opportunities and historical reflection.