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Crane Hill Bridge bids launched; town readies financing with Aug. 2025 start projected
Summary
Sugar Hill officials said bids for the Crane Hill Bridge replacement have opened after an informational meeting with 10 contractors; work is slated to begin August 2025 with a projected October 2026 completion and the town will seek financing through Woodsville Guaranty.
Selectman Chris Ellms and Town Administrator Jennifer Gaudette told the Selectmen on June 16 that the bid process for the Crane Hill Bridge replacement has begun after an informational meeting attended by 10 contractors. Bids are scheduled to be opened next week, and the town expects construction to start in August 2025 with projected completion in October 2026.
The town described the project as three phases with the possibility of a winter shutdown depending on the contractor. Gaudette said the board will provide more information about road closings and phasing as details are finalized and that she will contact Woodsville Guaranty to discuss financing options needed to fund the work.
The bridge project drew immediate attention because of its scale and the multi-phase schedule; Selectmen emphasized that final timelines and traffic impacts will depend on the winning bid and the contractor's plan. No vote to award a contract was recorded at the June 16 meeting.
Why it matters: The Crane Hill Bridge replacement will affect local traffic patterns for at least one construction season and requires town financing and coordination for road closures. Town officials signaled they will return with additional details about financing and construction staging.
What the board did: The Selectmen acknowledged receipt of the bid information and directed the town administrator to pursue financing discussions with Woodsville Guaranty. No formal award or contract action occurred during the meeting.
Next steps: Bids will be opened as scheduled; the board will present financing details and road-closing notices to residents once the low bid and contractor schedule are confirmed.
