One of ‘The Bridges’ is removed in Carlton
Photos by Brad London – Ramsey Constructors of Lakeville removes the deck of a bridge today in Carlton.
CARLTON – The smallest of the three bridges over the Oak Orchard River in Point Breeze was removed today by Ramsey Constructors of Lakeville.
The bridge has been closed since December 2011 after an inspection found several deficiencies with the structure.
The bridge over the Oak Orchard River Road is part of an area known as “The Bridges.” Two other bigger bridges that are close by on Route 98 and Route 18 remain open. However, several Point Breeze business owners want a replacement for the smaller bridge to improve traffic flow for the area and provide an alternative in case one of the bigger state bridges is closed.
The state’s current funding formula, which prioritizes bridges with high traffic, makes it unlikely a new bridge will be constructed at the site anytime soon, county officials said.
“We do not feel that the bridge is eligible for any available funding programs at this time,” said Chuck Nesbitt, the county chief administrative officer. “Plans are not currently in place to build a new bridge at the site.”
