Mansfield closing ‘deteriorating’ Balcom Street Bridge for rebuild operation
MANSFIELD, Mass. (WLNE) – Commuters frequenting Balcom Street in Mansfield will have to find an alternate route for the next year or so.
The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) announced Tuesday that it will be closing Balcom Street Bridge for roughly 16 months due to a rebuild operation.
The decision to rebuild comes after authorities determined the bridge was structurally deficient, including evidence of concrete deterioration and separation of bridge joints.
Images showing Balcom Street Bridge deterioration (MassDOT)
Officials say the closure begins Monday, Feb. 26, at which time detour signs will be posted throughout the area.
MassDOT adds that drivers traveling through the affected areas should expect delays, reduce speed, and use caution.
Proposed plan for Balcom Street Bridge rebuild (MassDOT)
Drivers will have signage, law enforcement details, and message boards for guidance through the work area, per authorities.
Local traffic will still be permitted on Balcom Street during the bridge’s construction.
While the initial timeline is 16 months, officials note that scheduled work is weather-dependent and can be impacted by potential emergencies.
BALCOM STREET BRIDGE TO CLOSE ON FEBRUARY 26TH. MassDOT will close the Balcom Street Bridge on Mon., Feb. 26, 2024. The expected project duration is 16 months. Questions? Please contact the District 5 Office at 857-368-5104; or the Mansfield DPW Office at 508-261-7335. pic.twitter.com/MvkqEs9lqR
— Town of Mansfield MA (@mansfield_ma) February 16, 2024
