East Haddam Delegation Lauds Planned Addition of Pedestrian Walkway to East Haddam Swing Bridge

The East Haddam Delegation today lauded the Department of Transportation’s planned addition of a pedestrian walkway to the East Haddam Swing Bridge when it performs renovations in 2022, excited for the recreational and everyday advantages it will bring to the local community. More than 100 years old, the East Haddam Bridge was once argued to be the longest swing bridge of its kind; it plays a vital connective role between Haddam and East Haddam.

“This development represents so many positive opportunities for our communities,” said State Senator Norm Needleman (D-Essex). “It will give us a new vantage point to naturally appreciate the Connecticut River from above like never before. It will provide new recreation and transportation opportunities, making Haddam and East Haddam more connected and walkable. It will also connect our towns more directly than ever before. This is lovely news that is easy to support.”

“So happy for this announcement from our partners at the DOT,” said State Representative Irene Haines (R-East Haddam). “Their recognition and support of the addition of the walkway will strengthen our combined commitment to the two towns partnership as well as the entire region’s tourism and economic development!”

“This bridge project connects more than our two towns — it opens up worlds of recreation, strengthens our tourism, connects us to nature, and provides a safe, exciting way stay fit,” said State Representative Christine Palm (D-Haddam). “This is government at its best, and I’m grateful to the DOT and our State and municipal leaders who came together to make this long-held vision a reality.”

The rehabilitation project of Bridge No. 01138, otherwise known as the East Haddam Swing Bridge, is slated to begin Spring 2022 with a target end date of Fall 2024. While the project will include vital upgrades, updates and improvements to the bridge’s quality, including a deck replacement and steel strengthening repairs, the sidewalk represents a significant upgrade to current amenities. The sidewalk, long requested, will be attacked to the south side of the bridge and connect existing sidewalks on each side, respectively on Little Meadow Road and the Goodspeed Opera House delivery driveway. The sidewalk will likely also have a new camera system, pedestrian warning gates and other safety additions.

The work has an estimated cost of $57 million. Maintenance will likely involve alternative one-way traffic at times, and the swing span of the bridge may remain closed during winter months to coordinate electrical system replacement work. The Department of Transportation will likely have additional details in coming months.