Houghton, MI – Educational and community leaders gathered on Friday morning for a critical emergency planning exercise simulating the inoperability of the Portage Lake Lift Bridge connecting Houghton and Hancock. Hosted by the Copper Country Intermediate School District (CCISD) and led by Houghton Emergency Management Coordinator Chris VanArsdale, the tabletop exercise aimed to develop strategies to support students, staff, and the broader community in the event of a bridge closure.
Over 40 participants—including school administrators, municipal officials, local police, the Houghton County Sheriff, emergency response teams, the U.S. Coast Guard, and representatives from local hospitals—engaged in discussions addressing both short-term (less than a few hours) and long-term (several days) scenarios of bridge inoperability.
Opened in 1959 and spanning 1,310 feet, the Portage Lake Lift Bridge is a crucial link between Houghton and Hancock, accommodating over 25,000 vehicles daily. The exercise underscored the importance of collaborative planning and communication among all stakeholders to minimize the impact of any unforeseen disruptions to the bridge's operation.
Key topics included managing students and staff potentially stranded on either side of the bridge, establishing effective communication with parents, and ensuring the safe return of students to their homes. A significant focus was placed on student safety and communication strategies with families.
“This exercise highlighted the critical need for preparedness in our community,” said CCISD Superintendent Jim Rautiola. “The lift bridge is more than just infrastructure—it’s a vital connection for our families, students, and staff. Collaborating with local agencies allows us to identify our strengths and address any gaps in our emergency response plans, and that we are prepared for any situation.”
Community leaders are encouraged to continue refining their response plans, identifying potential vulnerabilities, and working together to enhance overall preparedness. Insights gained from this exercise will inform ongoing planning and readiness efforts throughout the community.