GUILFORD — Prep work on the new Algiers Bridge on Route 5 is almost finished, according to project information officer Jill Barrett.
Barrett said in a news release that the contractor successfully placed concrete last week for the four prefabricated bridge units that will undergo a 10-day wet cure before they will be ready to be moved to the new bridge location. These units will weigh over 700,000 pounds, she said.
After taking time off for the July 4 holiday, Barrett said work will begin in earnest on July 5.
“The contractor will start roadway excavation, resulting in one-way alternating traffic controlled by flaggers during daylight hours,” she said. “Additionally, work will continue on building a work platform under the bridge that will hold debris while the bridge is demolished, and members of the crew, while the new bridge is constructed.”
Barrett said motorists are advised “to proceed slowly through the work zone and watch for flaggers. The surface of the road near the bridge will be gravel and will remain in that condition through the bridge closure period.”
Looking ahead, she said the bridge will close on Wednesday, July 12, at 7 a.m. The contractor has 28 days to complete the work and re-open the road by Aug. 9.
To discourage through traffic on Broad Brook Road while the Route 5 bridge is closed, Barrett said concrete barriers with a 12-foot opening will be placed by the town of Vernon at their entrance to the road. Both towns have set up a local detour - via Tyler Hill Road and Route 142 - while the bridge is closed.