A two lane bridge will be constructed on a scenic road in New Milford.  The New Milford Town Council voted 6 to 3 to authorize design work on the Cherniski Bridge.  The current one-lane bridge has been closed since January 2021, due to its poor condition. 

Public Works Director Jack Healy says a two-lane bridge is estimated to cost about $1.6 million.  It would qualify for a 50 percent state grant.  Some American Rescue Plan Act funds were also set aside for the work.  The balance comes to $230,000.  A single lane bridge would cost the town $830,000 because the state doesn't offer reimbursement for that kind of design as it's considered functionally obsolete.  Healy says the only way the state would consider giving grant money is for travel by less than 100 cars a day. 

Opponents say a two lane bridge design would violate the town’s scenic road ordinance.  The ordinance says that no alterations of a scenic road can be made unless the Town Council determines they’re necessary to maintain the road in good repair and in passable condition.  Opponents also argued that the ordinance calls for a scenic road committee to be formed.  The committee, appointed by the Mayor, would recommend aesthetics, beautification and preservation. 

The deadline to apply to the state for the grant is May 31st. Construction is expected to take place in 2023.