TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Shawnee County won’t be getting a federal grant for more than $16 million to rebuild an aging bridge.

The Topeka Capital-Journal reports the county learned Thursday it won’t receive the $16.7 million federal grant to fund the $24.4 million Willard Bridge project. Concerns about the bridge’s structural integrity prompted commissioners to reduce the bridge’s weight limit to nine tons.

County Commissioner Shelly Buhler says replacing the bridge remains a priority.

After finding out the county won’t get the grant, Buhler met with staff to discuss other funding options.

County commissioners sent letters to Sens. Jerry Moran and Pat Roberts, as well as U.S. Rep. Lynn Jenkins seeking their help in obtaining federal assistance. Buhler also met U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx in August during his visit to Wichita.