Glocester bridge getting facelift

GLOCESTER, R.I. (WPRI) - The Chestnut Hill Road Bridge will be closing on Monday September 13, 2010 for a $1.2 million rehabilitation project.  The bridge extends Chestnut Hill Road over the Chepachet River in Glocester. 

According to the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, the rehabilitation process includes a complete replacement of the bridge, wetland restoration, and construction of a replacement spillway structure beside the bridge. 

Federal stimulus money is paying for the project.

Built in 1908 and last rehabilitated in 1954, the bridge is safe for travel, RIDOT said. However, because of deteriorated steel girders, the bridge is considered structurally defective. A weight limit is currently in place, prohibiting some trucks, buses and emergency vehicles from crossing.

RIDOT said it is working statewide to correct deteriorated bridges. 

"We apologize for any inconvenience this project may cause, but motorists should know by closing the bridge completely we will be able to build the new structure as quickly as possible," said RIDOT Director Michael P. Lewis.

The bridge closure will last for approximately one year.  Altnerate routes during the closure include Putnam Pike and Pine Orchard Road, detouring around the bridge. A detour map can be found on RIDOT's website .

Motorists with questions can contact RIDOT’s Customer Service office at 401-222-2450 weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.