Input Sought On Major Bridge Replacement Project In Berlin

BERLIN, CT — Local officials this week unveiled early plans to replace a bridge in town that spans the Mattabassett River.

Berlin Town Manager Arosha Jayawickrema said the town is contemplating a project to replace the Glen Street Bridge over the Mattabassett River.

Town officials said the bridge replacement project would receive federal funds under the Federal Local Bridge Program administered by the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

If undertaken, the project design would be expected to begin in September 2023 with construction likely in 2025.

Jayawickrema said local and state policy encourages early information to citizens on such projects and encourages people to raise any concerns with municipal officials early in the planning process.

Jayawickrema said the town would receive at least 80 percent reimbursement from federal aid for all three phases of the project (Design, Rights-of -Way and construction) with the remaining funds from the state to cover 100 percent of the costs associated with the bridge replacement.

The federal aid for the project was authorized under the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act (FAST Act) administered by the Federal Highway Administration and the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

Those seeking additional information should contact: Jim Horbal, deputy director public works, at 860-828-7069 or Jhorbal@berlinct.gov and/or Mike Ahern, public works director/town engineer at Mahern@berlinct.gov or 860-828-7014.