Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Bridges topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee authorizes bridge load ratings and construction‑phase engineering contracts
Summary
The committee authorized a load‑rating study for Beaver and Spring Street bridges, and approved construction‑phase engineering agreements with GPI for the Marlborough corridor and George Street bridge replacement, citing DOT‑identified critical deficiencies and unanimous committee support.
City Engineer Brian Rufe told the Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee that New Hampshire DOT’s winter inspection identified critical deficiencies in three city bridges — George Street, Spring Street and Beaver Street — and that, without action, the city could face load restrictions or closures. Rufe asked the committee to authorize funding for an engineering structural study to determine safe loading and next steps.
The committee voted unanimously to recommend an engineering services agreement with Hoyle & Tanner for a Beaver Street and Spring Street load‑rating study (authorization up to $25,000), with execution contingent on the council resolution approving the funds. Rufe said the city solicited qualifications and selected the most competitive firm.
Rufe also explained selection of Greenman‑Pedersen Inc. (GPI) for construction‑phase engineering on the Marlborough Street corridor reconstruction (an 80% DOT‑funded project with 20% city match) and for the George Street bridge replacement, noting the latter project will require environmental testing because of contaminated soils. The committee authorized the city manager to execute agreements with GPI for the Marlborough project (up to $300,000) and the George Street replacement (up to $350,000); both motions passed unanimously.
The committee also recommended adoption of resolution R‑2025‑22 to fund the Beaver Street and Spring Street load‑rating study. Members asked few substantive questions; Rufe emphasized the studies are intended to define safe load limits and to avoid unplanned bridge closures. The items will go to City Council for final contracting and appropriation approvals.
