Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Bridge Serving Turnpike & Wheeler Rds is Closed

As of March 31st the Wheeler Road bridge that connects Ashby and Townsend via Turnpike Road is closed.

Statement by Townsend Town Administrator, Greg Barnes,

Based on a recent inspection by the State's District Bridge Inspection Unit, the Wheeler Road Bridge has been determined to be unsafe for vehicular traffic. Hence, residents should make immediate plans to use alternative routes oftravel. The bridge is likely to be officially blocked off to all vehicular traffic as early as March 31, 2009. I am well aware of the inconvenience that shutting down the bridge will cause many of Ashby's residents. On behalf of Townsend, I truly apologize for this. However, in light of the strong recommendation of the State, I think that we have no other option at this time than to shut it down or otherwise incur potential severe liability should anything go wrong. I will be discussing this issue with the Board of Selectmen tomorrow night.

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