The once proud bridge came tumbling down into the waters of the Murrumbidgee River on August 20, 2014 triggering a mixed response from the community.

Many residents approved of the decision due to the new cash savings to flow on to Wagga City Council, whereas others were disheartened to see the formative feature of their childhood disappear.

Just last week, the council started construction works that will transform the site into a community space.

Wagga mayor Greg Conkey remembers the decision to demolish the "magnificent old bridge" had not come easy to the councillors elected at the time. Cr Conkey was one of the many who has memories of travelling across the relic for many years.

"It was a disappointing meeting to vote to remove the bridge, but we really had no choice," he said.

"It served the community for 100 years and served the city well - and probably would have continued to serve the city into the future ... [but] it was too expensive to restore and for the ongoing maintenance it was at the burden of ratepayers."

The new community space has been designed around the salvaged sections of the bridge, which will feature a viewing platform, seating, and signage displaying the bridge "in its glory days".

Cr Conkey said the project has attempted to preserve the history and will hopefully become an attraction for Wagga. The works will be completed by November.