But now with a major overhaul scheduled to begin in the spring of 2022, drivers can expect delays and occasional extended closures on a much more regular basis. Instead of the typical 8-minute wait, closings will sometimes last for up to 63 hours as the span is rehabilitated and a new pedestrian walkway is installed along its south side. “A project of this size and complexity is always going to be invasive,” said Andy Cardinali, lead engineer in the bridge-design unit at the state Department of Transportation. “But we try our best to minimize the impact to the public and before we start we want everyone to understand what’s going on.” The $57 million project — with an 80 percent federal match — was launched when inspectors determined that the bridge’s superstructure had deteriorated to the point that it was jeopardizing its reliable operation. Corroding steel on the deck and the supportive structure under it, and an aging electrical system that often failed and caused the bridge to get stuck in the open position, were among the major areas of concern. Construction also will be adapted to accommodate weekend Broadway shows at the historic Goodspeed Opera House. The bridge will remain closed to marine traffic during the winter of 2023-24 to allow work to be done on the complex electrical system that powers the motors and enormous ring gears that open and close the bridge.
Tourism, Traffic, Migrating Fish and Birds — All Part of Planning the Swing Bridge Overhaul