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Selectboard opts to skip temporary bridge, pursue permanent Fox Stand bridge for 2028
Summary
After hearing state options, the Selectboard voted to decline a temporary bridge and instead pursue an accelerated permanent-bridge schedule that could deliver a permanent crossing by 2028 and lower long-term town costs; members discussed temporary traffic calming while waiting.
The Selectboard considered two state-provided options for the Fox Stand bridge: a temporary bridge with near-term access but higher town costs (figures discussed suggested a larger town share) or skipping the temporary structure in favor of accelerating the permanent bridge, which the state estimated could be in place by 2028 at lower town expense. Committee member (speaker 2) moved that the board pursue the permanent-bridge timeline and not accept a temporary bridge; the motion was seconded and the board voted in favor.
Board members who opposed the motion said a temporary bridge would provide immediate relief and urged continued outreach to state and federal contacts to seek alternatives; others argued the state is effectively steering the town toward the permanent-only option. The board also discussed interim traffic-calming steps — radar signs, police presence and temporary rubber bumps — while residents and staff seek mitigation during the multi-year construction timeline. "It looks like a temporary bridge would not be available until the spring of '26," one official said; the board ultimately voted to move forward without a temporary bridge to line up the permanent bridge for 2028.
