Watertown's "bridge to nowhere" will soon become a walkway to somewhere after the City Council approved by a 3-2 vote Monday buying a gazebo for Public Square.

"I know most of us are at the point where we're saying, 'Enough is enough. No more money in the downtown streetscape,'" said Councilwoman Roxanne M. Burns. "But I think you'll be doing an injustice if we just leave a pad there."

Ms. Burns, who previously likened the project to Alaska's unbuilt bridge project, joined Councilman Jeffrey M. Smith and Mayor Jeffrey E. Graham in voting to spend up to $10,000 on the structure. Councilmen Joseph M. Butler Jr. and Peter L. Clough voted against the resolution.

"I think what everyone envisioned was that that was an aesthetic part of the square, like the fountain, the lights and the posts," said Mr. Graham.

Kenneth A. Mix, city planning and community coordinator, said the gazebo was not recommended by staff after bids for the entire project came in higher than expected in April 2006. The structure had an estimated cost of $20,000.

Mr. Graham said he didn't remember the gazebo being dropped, but added: "I think there were pressures brought to bear to delete the gazebo from other government entities who may have been involved in seeking funding for the whole project because of differences on aesthetics. But I think the council always wanted it there."

When asked to specify who he considered responsible, the mayor said: "I'll let you draw your own conclusions. But there was a difference of opinion on the aesthetic value of the gazebo. There were some who felt it would be a gathering place for those with nefarious intentions."

The city received state and federal funding for the $7 million project. Ms. Burns said the city had a bandstand or gazebo in the late 1880s.

"It's something that is reminiscent of downtown Watertown and I think that's why it was incorporated in the original streetscape project," she said.

Mr. Butler agreed that it would be nice to have a gazebo, but said: "I would rather see it be done through a fundraising effort or volunteers. If the city residents are adamant about having one, I for one would help volunteer. But I don't think at this point I'm willing to use taxpayer money. With the financial uncertainty that lies ahead — I know it's a small-ticket item, but I just don't support that."

Mr. Butler suggested putting off the project until the Council knows what budget challenges they will face next spring.

Mr. Graham said there would never "be a mythical day when it's going to seem more or less financially advantageous. I agree with Mr. Butler; next spring is going to be more difficult. But I think we should get this project done and not continue debating small aspects of it next April."

Mr. Clough and Mr. Smith did not comment on their votes, although Mr. Clough said later he'd like to trim expenses now in anticipation of a tough budget ahead.

The council also agreed, 4-1, to contract with Maxim Health Services, Columbia, Md. to provide flu shots this fall. The cost will be $30 per person.

"I just don't know that it's our role to provide that benefit," said Mr. Butler, who voted against the resolution as a matter of cost. There were 120 city employees who took advantage of the program last year, when it was administered by Jefferson County Public Health Service.