Today, State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex) announced the Department of Transportation will begin construction of rehabilitation on the Arrigoni Bridge approach span, which carries Routes 17 and 66 in Middletown and Portland, on February 27. This work, which will continue as one part of a larger project slated to continue through February 2022 and will coincide with simultaneous work on the Saint John’s Square/Main Street intersection operational improvement project in Middletown.
Work on this bridge project will consist of replacing its bridge decks, upgrading its superstructure steel upgrades and general repairs. The substructure will also be repaired to improve overall structural capacity, reliability and integrity, with an additional protective fence ranging from eight to 12 feet in height added to the bridge’s approach and main spans.
Construction will occur in three separate stages to maintain traffic flow while allowing adequate space for work to continue. On Routes 17 and 66, traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction with the use of temporary concrete barriers, which will be in place for a maximum of 18 months.
Lanes will be closed along the following guidelines:
This project is scheduled to be completed February 25, 2022. Motorists should be aware modifications or extensions to the schedule could become necessary in the event of weather delays or other complications; they are advised to maintain a safe speed while driving.