Fall Update
This is our first update since launching the website and we want to thank all of those who have taken an interest in saving Waterside Bridge. It has been heartening to see so many in the community step up in support of it. Ironically, in these divisive times, this iconic bridge seems to have become an unexpected source of unity for us.
We have received a number of questions asking when citizens will be able to publicly express their opinions about the bridge project and/or vote on the measure. At the present time, the best ways to make our voices heard are as follows:
Display a yard sign and/or encourage others to do so. Yard signs are available through the website.
Email Town officials to express your concerns. All email addresses are listed on the website.
Attend a Town Council meeting. They are held twice a month, on the first Wednesday of the month at 8:00 a.m. and on the third Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. There is always at least one person from our team at these meetings. You have the option of addressing the Council but it is not required.
Write a Letter to the Editor of our local newspaper. We are happy to provide assistance with the submission process and, if needed, with content.
If you are able to do the third and/or fourth option please let us know through contactus@savewatersidebridge.org. A team member will contact you to assist with questions, timing of letters, etc.
As for other developments, we continue to collect information about past work done on the bridge and can say with all certainty that a new bridge is not needed. With twelve 40 foot steel pilings anchoring the concrete abutments and center pier into the bedrock this bridge has an expected life span of 75 years from its last renovation in 1993. This means that it could be due for replacement in 2068 but most definitely not in 2029. Our findings leave absolutely no doubt about this, and the highly regarded bridge inspector with whom we are working concurs. As noted on the website, the substantial substructure that was built in 1993 is concealed underneath the facing of quarried 17th century stones.
In order to make Town leaders more aware of these facts, we are anticipating having our consulting bridge inspector address the Town Council very soon. He travels the world inspecting bridges so we must work around his schedule. He has given us a tentative date of availability for addressing the Town Council and we will share details once confirmation is final. Please join us if at all possible. We also hope to video his remarks and make available