<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0c3lTz_0wQ6B5KP00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0c3lTz_0wQ6B5KP00" width="1000" height="750" ><figcaption>Stony Brook bridge, slated for rehabilitation by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. (Photo/Ben Domaingue)</figcaption></figure>Subscribe to our mailing list and consider following WestfordCAT on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram for daily updates from Westford's hometown source for news. WESTFORD — Stony Brook Road could see improvements, including the rehabilitation of the road’s aging bridge. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation held a public hearing earlier this month for proposed improvements along Stony Brook Road. The approximately $2 million project would be funded through the Transportation Improvement Program through the Northern Middlesex Metropolitan Planning Organization.Approximately $1.63 million in funding would come from the Federal Highway Administration and the final 20% will be paid by the state. The project aims to preserve the bridge, improve traffic safety, and minimize environmental impact while maintaining its historical look, according to MassDOT. The 1880s-era bridge faces minor structural deficiencies. However, substandard parapets, the protective walls against the edges of the bridge, do not meet current safety standards. On its most recent routine inspection report in 2022 the bridge’s superstructure was rated as being in “fair condition” and the substructure as being in “satisfactory condition.” The repairs “will improve the load carrying capacity and long-term durability of the bridge,” according to MassDOT. Rehabilitation will include adding a concrete relieving slab atop the existing stone masonry arches to prolong the lifespan of the existing bridge. Additionally, MassDOT will perform some structural repairs below the bridge. New traffic barriers will also be installed along the road approaching the bridge to abide by current safety standards. These barriers will help with stabilization and minor drainage improvements. Designs for the project could be finalized by next spring with the date for public bidding advertisement scheduled for 2026. Construction is anticipated to start in early 2026. Construction is slated to take three months. Support WestfordCAT NewsLocal journalism is vital to our communities. As other publications shift focus toward regional journalism, WestfordCAT continues to provide high-quality hyperlocal reporting to our town, free for everyone to read. So — we have a small favor to ask. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps us sustain our journalism and keep our community informed. Please consider supporting WestfordCAT by donating online.</div></body>

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MassDOT hosts public hearing on Stony Brook bridge rehabilitation

WESTFORD — Stony Brook Road could see improvements, including the rehabilitation of the road’s aging bridge. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation held a public hearing earlier this month for proposed improvements along Stony Brook Road. The approximately $2 million project would be funded through the Transportation Improvement Program...