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City begins study of Rochester Neck Road bridge; rebuilding could cost up to $3 million
Summary
The city opened a study phase for the structurally troubled Rochester Neck Road bridge and is soliciting input from waste haulers and neighboring towns; staff said full replacement could cost around $3 million and that closure or a reduced use alternative remain options under study.
Public Works Director Norris told the committee the Rochester Neck Road bridge is showing signs of severe deterioration and the city has entered a study phase to determine needs and options. Norris said the bridge “is trending towards the red list” and that an estimated rebuild cost is about $3 million.
Norris said staff are contacting Brock’s Waste Management and regional emergency services (Dover, Madbury, Barrington) to assess operational impacts if the bridge is closed or restricted; Brock’s uses the crossing for container facilities on the far side and would need alternate routing via Tollan Road to reach Route 125. Staff noted that if Rochester Neck Road were closed to through traffic, parallel route upgrades or intersection improvements (particularly at Tollan Road and Route 125) would likely be required.
No decisions have been made and the council will ultimately decide whether to repair, rebuild or restrict the bridge. Staff said they will perform the study and return with options, including possible conversion to pedestrian/cyclist use if full vehicular rehab is not justified.
Ending — next steps: Staff will complete the bridge study, solicit input from regional stakeholders and return to the committee with recommended options and cost estimates for council consideration.
