Greenfield, Massachusetts (WWLP) – The General Pierce Bridge, which connects Greenfield and Montagu, is nearing the end of its restoration project. The bridge is closed from April 2021.
Bridge neighbors are excited to work wrapping the surface before the end of the week when the bridge will open up to one lane in the final stages of the project.
Barriers had been moved Wednesday as crews prepared to return the car to the bridge.
After painting, removing the work platform installed under the bridge, and installing a pedestrian lighting system, one lane will be required for cranes and trucks.
22News spoke to neighbors who live nearby about the ordeal that has now been years in the making.
“Usually everyone speeds through here, but it’s much more peaceful now that the bridge blocks traffic less. “It’s great, it’s right on the river. It’s great,” said one resident.
However, it is not yet smooth sailing for neighboring countries. They told 22News that the last time he was restricted to one lane, people in alternating lanes very often ran away from the line of cars waiting to cross and started tearing up the driveway apron. Enough for MassDOT to put in a sign discouraging it.
There is no exact estimate for when the bridge will reopen for its one-lane movement, but it will be within the next few days.
According to MassDOT, a full reopening of the bridge will occur once the work has been completed and the scaffolding system has been removed. The expected reopening of the bridge is late March 2023.
