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Closures to begin next week for Central Avenue/Elliot Street bridge

Closures to begin next week for Central Avenue/Elliot Street bridge

The project to restore the failing bridge connecting Central Ave in Needham and Elliot Street in Newton will begin the week of May 9 -- resulting in occasional closures and/or lane closures as soon as next week and a complete closure for several months starting in mid-July.

The initial stage of the project will involve pre-construction activities such as the installation of erosion controls, tree trimming and removal and repairs to the underside of the arches, according to the contractor Aetna Bridge Construction Company..
 
In mid-June, the project will shift to installation of drilled micropiles. There will be intermittent alternating lane closures until mid-June. Directional travel restrictions during peak commuter time may result in the need for one-way traffic only. During off-peak periods, motorists may experience delays as a result of alternating crossing from both directions. Traffic delays on weekdays are likely between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. As work progresses, the contractor may opt for longer work days.
 
Then starting mid-July, the bridge will be totally closed to all vehicle and pedestrian traffic in order for the bridge reconstruction work to take place. It is currently projected that the closure will remain in effect until early December. This information is based on preliminary information from the contractor. The contractor is in the process of preparing a comprehensive schedule.
Public safety personnel and the economic development directors in Needham and Newton will monitor the traffic situation and seek to make adjustments as necessary.
 
 
The chamber recognizes that this project will cause considerable hardship for area businesses, employees, customers and commuters. However the bridge is failing and there is no alternative to this closure.
We urge our members to continue to support the businesses on both sides of bridge. We will continue to provide updates on this project. I welcome your feedback.


Greg Reibman
President, Newton-Needham Chamber
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