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Commission discusses Harris Street Bridge condition, advises DPW to check with state
Summary
Commissioners discussed the dilapidated Harris Street Bridge, noted it is listed on the National Register and appears deeded to the Taunton Conservation Commission, and advised the Department of Public Works to coordinate with the state on demolition or transfer of responsibility.
Members of the Tartan Historic Commission spent part of the Jan. 16, 2025, meeting discussing the deteriorating Harris Street Bridge and whether the commission has jurisdiction over any proposed demolition.
Commissioners recounted that the bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and, according to the historic listing, title is associated with the Taunton Conservation Commission rather than the city’s Department of Public Works. Commissioners said the structure is dilapidated and in need of attention but that the historic listing does not itself prevent demolition; they advised that any DPW plan to remove the bridge should be coordinated with the state and that the state may raise concerns because of the National Register status.
One commissioner noted that ownership being deeded to the Taunton Conservation Commission is an “oddity” and may complicate municipal jurisdiction. Commissioners agreed they currently have no direct jurisdiction over the bridge; their role is advisory unless a state decision or other action returns jurisdiction to the commission or the city.
Ending: Commissioners asked staff to advise the Department of Public Works that the commission cannot unilaterally authorize demolition and to recommend DPW check with the appropriate state agencies given the bridge’s National Register status. No formal motion or enforcement action was taken at the meeting.
