The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) will replace the superstructure of Bridge No. 00793A carrying Route 15 Northbound over the Quinnipiac River in Wallingford. The project scope also includes concrete patching and modifications to the existing concrete abutments and pier, regrading of the Quinnipiac River to remove sedimentation islands that have formed upstream and downstream from the bridge, and installation of riprap as a scour countermeasure. Temporary traffic patterns on Route 15 Northbound and Southbound will be initiated intermittently throughout construction.

“This project will bring this critical bridge up to a state of good repair, improve safety for drivers, and extend the lifespan of the structure carrying Route 15 over the Quinnipiac River, while keeping access to the Quinnipiac River Linear Trail open during construction,” said Connecticut Department of Transportation Project Manager Kevin Blasi.

An access easement will be obtained to provide construction personnel and equipment the ability to reach the necessary work areas below the bridge. The access easement will span from North Plains Highway over Wallingford Group, LLC, and Wallingford properties to the project site.

The work area below the bridge abuts the Quinnipiac River Linear Trail (QRLT), which is partially located on municipal property. However, impacts to the trail will be minimal and temporary. Construction vehicles and personnel will cross the QRLT intermittently to complete the work. The QRLT will remain open at all times. Flaggers will be present to protect users of the trail while construction vehicles are crossing. The work area below the bridge adjacent to the QRLT will be lined with construction fencing to define the work area and to protect the public. Upon construction completion, all disturbed areas within project limits will be restored. The project will not adversely affect the activities, features, or attributes of the QRLT.

After construction completion, the access easement will provide CTDOT maintenance and inspection personnel the ability to access the area below the bridge. Bridge inspections will occur every two years, or as needed. Future maintenance will be performed as needed. Future maintenance and inspection activities will not affect public use of the QRLT.

The design plans for this project are expected to be completed in the summer of 2024, with a tentative date for construction activities to begin in the spring of 2025.

Residents, business owners, and other interested individuals can contact Kevin Blasi at Kevin.Blasi@ct.gov with any questions, comments, or concerns by August 15, 2023. Please refer to State Project No. 0148-0213.