The Connecticut Department of Transportation has been steadily working on the replacement of Bridge No. 02591, Route 97 over Fuller Brook, near Utley Road since late last fall. Many commuters watched as trees came down and the vision of the waterfall (on the Brown’s side) continued to a steep rush below Arlene Becker’s home. This project consists of removing and replacing the existing culvert bridge and all the superstructure elements above. The new bridge will be constructed above the 100-year design storm elevation.

This project was awarded to New England Road, Inc. at a cost of $2,463,762 and is scheduled to be completed by November 2024. The project is administered by the Bureau of Engineering and Construction, Office of Construction, District 2 in Norwich.

While there was a lane closure on Route 97, the traffic signals have been removed. Route 97 will be closed from the beginning of May —August and detours will use Routes 44, 169, and Route 6. This may lead to more traffic on our back roads. Be careful out there, folks!

Mary Oliver