New London - The state Department of Transportation will conduct a public information meeting about the rehabilitation of the south bound portion of Gold Star Memorial Bridge at 7 p.m. Feb. 26 in the City Council Chambers.

In the event of inclement weather, the meeting will be held on March 12.

The project is in the preliminary phase of design, according to the release, and construction is anticipated to begin in spring 2017. The total estimated construction cost for the project is $21.3 million and funding will be a combination of state and federal funds, according to a DOT news release.

The plan is to repair deteriorated elements of the bridge to ensure an extended service life, and also to replace three overhead sign structures, according to the release. Most of the funding is slated for repairs on the bridge itself, with about $2.3 million for repairs of the Exit 84S offramp from the bridge into New London, according to DOT spokesman Kevin Nursick.

Nursick said the repairs are not related to Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's budget presentation today. He said funding for the repairs was allocated in the past and that plans have been underway for some time, probably for years.

Permanent shoulder closures will be required to allow installation of the new overhead sign structures, the release stated. Maintenance and protection of traffic shall be accomplished with temporary lane and shoulder closures on the bridge, as well as on local roads below the structure, according to the release.

During the public meeting, there will be a presentation about the project and the public will have a chance to provide input before the design is finalized, the release stated. Plans will be available for review.

For information or to review the plans, contact Project Manager Andrew J. Cardinali at (860) 594-3315.

- Tess Townsend