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Valley Cross Road Bridge reconstruction delayed; truss repairs increase town exposure
Summary
Select Board members said additional truss repairs and stonework have pushed back a firm completion date for the Valley Cross Road Bridge and added roughly $186,000 to reconstruction costs, with the state covering 75% of eligible costs.
Select Board members updated residents that additional repairs to the Valley Cross Road Bridge have increased project costs and delayed completion. Town staff said the state will cover 75% of eligible repair costs, but unexpected truss and stonework needs have pushed the town's share higher.
The board reported an additional approximately $186,000 in truss-related costs over the original bid, putting the town's cost at about $504,579 (noting the figure is approximate). Chairman Barbara Campbell said the June completion cited in previous meetings is a "soft date" because truss repairs and weather-dependent stone work have caused schedule slippage.
Why it matters: The bridge is a critical piece of town infrastructure; cost increases affect debt service and warrant planning. The minutes show the town's debt service line increased to reflect the additional reconstruction scope and related interest handling.
Resident questions and board response: Sarah Clemons asked about completion timing; Barbara Campbell explained the truss repairs and stone work remain the main uncertainties and that the state reimbursement will be applied when work is complete. Jerry Dougherty asked about liquidated damages for late completion; Campbell said the town is investigating but no fines have been imposed to date.
What’s next: The Select Board will monitor invoices and state reimbursement timing; any material change to the town's exposure will be reflected in future budget hearings and warrant articles.
