Replacement of Cider Brook Bridge over Cider Brook

Project February, 2022 Update:

The project to replace the bridge over Cider Brook was substantially completed on time and on budget in December, 2021, including removal of the old bridge, installation of a new three-sided box culvert, installation of drainage and approach rails, and widening of the roadway in the project area. As expected, due to the weather conditions the final tasks remaining, which include staining of the faux-brownstone parapets and wing walls, installation of minor landscaping, and additional sealing will be completed as the weather allows in the springtime. The Town wants to thank residents for their patience and cooperation as the road was closed to through traffic during construction.

Project Description:

The project to replace the Bridge over Cider Brook on Cider Brook Road is scheduled to begin in September, 2021. The bridge, located at the north end of Cider Brook Road, was originally built in 1900 and rebuilt in 1934. The existing bridge has a concrete deck and concrete abutments and has been deemed “functionally obsolete” and “structurally deficient” by the CT Department of Transportation.

In the interest of public safety and infrastructure management, the Town contracted with Cardinal Engineering to design a replacement structure that maintains the area’s rural character, while meeting various environmental and structural requirements of state and local agencies. The project will also include safe approaches to the bridge, as well as limited formal storm drainage conveyances.

The construction work will be completed by Dayton Construction of Watertown, CT. and is expected to take approximately 3 months to complete.

A total of approximately $750,000 has been appropriated for this project through the Town’s capital budget to date. In addition, the Town has received a commitment to fund from the CTDOT for 50% reimbursement of design and construction costs under the CT Local Bridge Program.

In order to construct the project efficiently and safely, Cider Brook Road will be closed to thru traffic from Waterville Road to just past the bridge for a period expected to begin in early September and continue to early December.

Please also note, the Contractor is taking steps to protect the area immediately adjacent to the bridge from damage during the construction as it contains remnants of a former historic cider mill.