Replacing Groton Long Point Bridge Could Be Costly

An engineering firm outlined four options for repairing or replacing the Groton Long Point Bridge, with costs ranging from $1.89 million to $4.2 million depending on which one is chosen.

The bridge, which provides the only vehicle access to Groton Long Point and Mumford Cove, was damaged during Hurricane Irene.

The options were compiled after a study by the firm URS and outlined during an informational meeting organized by the Deaprtment of Public works. The Groton Town Council will consider them in the coming weeks.

Each option, what it entails and its estimated cost is listed below:

Option 1: Replace the bridge structure. The roadway would be 30 feet with 12-foot travel lanes, 3-foot shoulders and no accommodations for pedestrians. Cost: $1.89 million.

Option 2: Replace the bridge structure and add a sidewalk.  The roadway would be 30 feet with 11-foot travel lanes, 4- foot shoulders and a 6-foot wide pedestrian bridge. Cost: $2.36 million.

Option 3: Replace the bridge, widen it and build a sidewalk. The roadway would be 32 feet, with 12-foot travel lanes, 4-foot shoulders and a 6-foot sidewalk. Cost: $3.6 million.

Option 4: "Full replacement.” The roadway would be 32 feet, with 12-foot travel lanes, 4-foot shoulders and a 6-foot sidewalk. Cost: $4.2 million.

The Groton Long Point Bridge and causeway was built in 1935, and still has wire guardrails in some areas.

Walkers and bicyclists also used the bridge to get from the west side of town to Esker Point Beach.