Two old stone bridges are proposed to be upgraded by the state Department of Transportation, despite being previously reinforced with modern technology. The projects call for adding new roads over the bridges, which officials said will address deficiencies, ensure the spans meet required load standards and retain the bridges’ historic significance. The work will cost an estimated $5.4 million. Project Engineer Jonathan Carelli explained the first bridge, located on Parks Road and spanning Broad Brook, consists of a stone bridge built in 1900 which was reinforced in 1960 with concrete slabs. The two-lane roadway has a width of 21 feet. The proposed work calls for adding a new concrete layer on top of the bridge and re-constructing the roadway to be longer and wider. The updated span would include two 10-foot travel lanes and reinforced concrete abutments. The $2.8 million in upgrades would not disturb the original, underlying structure, officials said. Designs for the bridges are expected to be complete in August. Construction would begin in April 2027 and finish in November of that year. During construction, detours would go into effect.
https://theday.com/news/749924/dot-to-upgrade-two-historic-stone-bridges-in-preston/