Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
Date: 12/19/2022
LUDLOW – On Dec. 14, the Massachusetts Depart of Transportation (MassDOT) hosted a virtual pre-recorded public hearing for a bridge replacement on Piney Lane.
MassDOT Project Manager Anthony Christakis gave a presentation on why the bridge needs to be fixed.
The project deals with the reconstruction of Piney Lane over Broad Brook.
Piney Lane currently crosses Broad Brook over a series of three pipe culverts and has been rated in critical condition according to the last inspection report from MassDOT.
Christakis said that every year MassDOT inspects all the bridges in town and the bridge over Broad Brook was deemed in critical condition.
“The existing condition rating of the bridge is a two which is critical. We also saw heavy deterioration and section loss to all three corrugated metal pipes as well as deterioration in the roadway with cracks and potholes.” Christakis said.
He added that the metal pipes are considered beyond repair and the whole bridge must be redesigned.
The presentation included pictures of the damage to the current state of the bridge and designs on how they plan to build a new one.
Christakis went on to talk about the project goals.
“We want to replace the structurally deficient bridge by being compliant with current requirements and construction of new shaft supported abutments, new presented deck beam superstructure and regarding approach profiles.” Christakis added.
Chistakis said, “The project will also increase the bridge elevation to meet the 100-year flood elevation and provide adequate vertical clearance for recreational use.”
This public hearing included a 25 percent design drawing on which the town of Ludlow, MassDOT and Dewberry Engineers Inc. collaborated.
The improvements will upgrade its safety features with a new guardrail and safety curb and will include provisions to support future water and sewer lines.
The design included an adjacent temporary bridge during construction to maintain access.
The next step according to Christakis is to have a 75 percent drawing done by spring 2023 and have the 100 percent design submitted by summer 2023.
Both designs will be reviewed by MassDOT and the town of Ludlow before going forward.
Christakis said that after the designs are approved, MassDOT and Ludlow will prepare and advertise for bidding.
If everything goes according to plan, construction will begin in spring 2024 and be complete in spring 2025 according to Christakis.
Residents can view the public hearing at www.mass.gov/orgs/massachusetts-department-of-transportation and submit their questions and feedback to dot.feedback.highway@state.ma.us.