Hamden Covered Bridge Update: December 11

 

Date: Tue, 11 Dec 2000
From: Phil Pierce
To: Wayne Marshfield, Trish Kane, Joe Nelson, Gabrielle Buel, Dick Wilson
Subject: Hamden Status

Hi Folks - a brief update on Hamden - the Contractor is essentially done and has moved off site. The County is in the process of removing the steel bents from beneath the bridge and the old timber pier. We hope to move the shale pad that was used for crane access on the south side over to the approach roadway. If we are lucky and the shale can be worked without much problem (concern for frost in it) and if we can provide a reasonable approach grade, then we hope to reopen the bridge in the next weeks. If so, then we will position concrete barriers as temporary constraints. We will have to add gravel and the asphalt next spring. We want to wait on installing the timber guide railing until after the asphalt is placed.

If the shale is full of frost and if we get a lot of snow and rain while trying to get it in place, then it would become a quagmire when it thaws and we do not want that condition. Accordingly, I cannot say at this time when we will know about potential opening - will keep you posted.

I am told that the Town plans a special opening celebration next summer. As always, I'm sure there will be a lot of disappointment with the potential delay - no one more than me. If anyone has questions, please contact me - I'll handle the heat if I know of it.

Phil