NATCHEZ — Sigh-worthy views of the mighty Mississippi may have to wait just a bit longer.

The Bridge of Sighs, part of the Natchez Trails Project, is set for completion sometime in early July.

Natchez Water Works Superintendent David Gardner said since construction began on the bridge, which will connect two sides of the bluff separated by Roth Hill Road, progress has been slow.

“We’ve had an unusual amount of rain over the past three months, which has hampered our ability to get a lot done,” Gardner said.

Before the bridge opens for public use, Gardner said sidewalks leading up to the bridge on either side must be raised to create a smooth transition onto the bridge.

By matching the surfaces, Gardner said the bridge becomes handicap accessible, and meets regulations set by the American Disability Act.

Also, a few minor aesthetic features — such as planters placed on either side of the bridge — will be installed before July 1.

“We’re putting in electrical receptacles all along the bluff, too,” Gardner said. “There’s often a need for electricity along the bluff, so we’re going to install these in various locations to make it more user friendly.”

Gardner said the construction of the Bridge of Sighs has been a long time coming.

“We started pursuing funds for it early on — about four or five years ago,” he said.

Dozer LLC has been the main construction company behind the project, Gardner said.

Since the idea of the bridge was conceived, Gardner said he — along with representatives from Dozer — has worked to make the bridge as aesthetically pleasing as possible.

“It’s one of the most magnificent views of the Mississippi River,” he said. “So there was a lot of planning and consideration involved.”

Gardner also pointed out that in the mid 1800s a bridge existed in that same location, and this bridge was also called the Bridge of Sighs

“We wanted to try and match the style and location as best as we could,” he said.

And while no one knows for certain the origin of the bridge’s name, Gardner guessed the Bridge of Sighs in Venice, Italy might have had some influence.

“Either way, it’s going to be a spectacular view of the Mississippi River, and we’re excited for the community to have something like this,” he said.

In total, Gardner said the bridge’s complete construction will cost the city approximately $700,000.

Once Gardner retires from Natchez Water Works, the project will fall into the hands of his successor, Tony Moon.

Originally, Gardner was set to retire May 1. However, his retirement was later pushed back to early June.