Select Board members said a recent engineering inspection of the North Main Street bridge over the Otter River shows severe, priority deficiencies and that the bridge may need full replacement rather than repair. Members discussed state Chapter 90 funding, federal infrastructure grants and other financing mechanisms and urged an organized push to secure funds.

Why it matters: Board members said the bridge is an important route for emergency vehicles, school buses and local traffic. Multiple members warned that if the bridge is taken out of service it could accelerate deterioration of alternate crossings and produce traffic and safety problems.

Inspection highlights: The board cited a published inspection (April 9, 2025) that listed the wearing surface, girders, sidewalks and water main exposure as having major deficiencies and classified some beams as out of service. A board member said a prior debt-exclusion ballot narrowly failed and that a 2018 design exists but the town must re-engage the project and update cost estimates.

Funding and next steps: Members discussed Chapter 90 apportionment (the town's most recent allocation was $783,094.98 as reported by the MassDOT apportionment list), the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Massachusetts MassWorks and other grant programs and the possibility of bond anticipation notes. The board asked staff to compile an updated cost estimate and financial plan, consult the town's municipal financial adviser about borrowing options, and prepare materials and visuals to present to the town's legislative representatives and constituents.

Board members emphasized persistence: multiple members said routine reminders and visible advocacy with state and federal representatives are necessary to move the project up funding lists. No formal funding vote was taken; the board requested staff work on an action plan and to assemble project documentation for outreach to legislators and grant programs.