During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the Main Street Bridge project over Reesbrook, focusing on a grant application that would facilitate the final design and permitting process. The project, which aims to replace the aging bridge, is expected to require an in-kind match of $11,000 but will not necessitate a cash match.

The board deliberated on whether to accept the grant, which would make the project fully permitted and \"shovel ready.\" However, questions arose regarding the implications of accepting the grant, particularly whether it would obligate the town to proceed with a full bridge replacement or if it could support a less extensive repair.

Concerns were raised about the bridge's current condition and the necessity of its replacement, with some officials noting that the state had not mandated the replacement as it had for other local bridges. The discussion highlighted the potential for rehabilitation rather than complete replacement, depending on engineering assessments and the specific requirements of the Municipal Vulnerability Program (MVP), which emphasizes climate resilience.

The meeting also touched on the bridge's capacity to handle flood events, with officials recalling past flooding issues that had prompted discussions about the bridge's structural integrity. The state’s preference for a larger, more robust structure was noted, as it aligns with the goals of the MVP.

Additionally, the logistics of the project were considered, including the timeline for construction, which could take up to two years. Officials indicated that traffic would be managed through temporary signals, minimizing disruption during the bridge's replacement or repair.

As the board weighs its options, the outcome of this grant application could significantly impact the future of the Main Street Bridge and the town's infrastructure resilience.