Amtrak sets March 1 for start of Niantic bridge replacement

East Lyme — Amtrak announced Thursday that the replacement of the Niantic River Bridge will begin March 1. Town officials are making preparations by closing a section of the boardwalk.

The eastern portion, which begins at the wooden boardwalk section and continues to the bridge area, will be closed until further notice.

After March 1 the boardwalk will be accessible to the public from the Hole in the Wall Beach only, and approximately half will remain open during the replacement project.

Amtrak awarded a $104.7 million, three-year contract to Cianbro/Middlesex VII of Pittsfield, Maine, to construct a two-track bridge south of the present alignment. Included is expanding the navigation channel beneath the bridge, realigning the east and west track approaches, and relocating the boardwalk, including beach restoration.

Those with questions can call First Selectman Paul Formica at (860) 691-4110 or e-mail him at pformica@eltownhall.com.