A key bridge linking Georgia, Vt.’s town center with its eastern neighborhoods is now closed for extensive repairs that will last through early September.
The Highbridge, located between Route 104A and Georgia Mountain Road, officially closed to all traffic this week. Construction on the 38-year-old bridge is expected to last approximately 70 days, with a projected completion date of Sept. 8.
The bridge spans the Lamoille River and serves as a crucial connector for local commuters and emergency services.
A 2022 inspection by the Vermont Agency of Transportation identified several issues, including heavy epoxy wear, a cracked joint header and other structural concerns, according to a report from Samessnger.com.
The upcoming repairs will focus on concrete rehabilitation, epoxy overlay, roadway approach upgrades and guardrail improvements.
During the closure, drivers will be rerouted through Arrowhead Lake Road, North Road and Milton’s Main Street to reach Route 7. Local officials estimate the detour could add up to 15 minutes to travel times.
Emergency response coordination has been arranged with nearby towns. Milton county’s fire and rescue services will respond to calls on Georgia’s east side to compensate for delayed local response times.
The $306,000 project is funded entirely through locally accumulated reserves, as the bridge did not qualify for state or federal grants.
Officials hope to complete the work by Aug. 27, when students return to Georgia Elementary and Middle School, though progress remains weather dependent.
Source: Samessenger.com, WCAX.com
