First Selectman's Update on Chappell Road and Goshen Hill Road Bridges

I want to provide an update on two bridge replacement projects. Many residents have noticed and called my office regarding the work (or lack of work) on Chappell Road and Goshen Hill. Work began at these locations over the summer and was to be completed in early fall. However, since the bridges were removed and the roads made impassable, little to no work has been visible at these sites. For several months, I have been visiting both sites frequently to check for progress and have requested updates from our engineering firm on the reason for the apparent lack of work. I was initially informed that due to delays in the availability of precast culverts, work was on hold but was still expected to be completed close to the original schedule.

Earlier this month, I was finally given an updated timeline on these projects from our engineering firm which confirmed that these projects are facing serious delays due to the availability of culverts. COVID19 has disrupted the supply chains for steel, leading to long delays. The new timeline provided for completion of Chappell Road was late December with Goshen Hill completion in late February. These timelines are weather dependent. After the delays were confirmed, the Board of Selectmen met with our engineering firm to discuss options to get the projects moving and ensure accountability for the situation.

It is the consensus on the Board of Selectmen that the contractors should have been well-aware of the delays facing the supply chain for culverts long before they began work and removed the two bridges. Work should never have begun on these projects in July. Due to the decisions of these contractors, residents and the town have been left to deal with two critical roads being closed for months with the likelihood that these closures will extend into the winter season. This creates complications for snow plowing and other winter safety concerns.

The Board of Selectmen has communicated to our engineering firm that this situation is unacceptable. We are exploring options to get the roads passable sooner and to make sure this never happens again.

Sincerely,

Kevin T. Cwikla
First Selectman