Norwich — Construction equipment arrived Monday and a small orange sign warns Norwich motorists that the Sherman Street bridge will close to traffic beginning June 27.

Manafort Bros. Inc. was awarded the contract for the $10.3 million project to replace the aging double bridges over the Yantic River and adjacent former mill canal. The company brought in equipment Monday and placed a sign at the bridge. Equipment is parked in the Upper Falls Heritage Park.

Beginning June 27, the park vehicular entrance will be closed throughout construction, but the park will remain open for pedestrians, with access from a staircase on Sherman Street.

Public Works Director Patrick McLaughlin said the original plan called for reopening the bridge during the winter. But with the project starting about two months later than planned, the bridge might need to be closed and work continue during the winter months.

"Right now, we're saying it's to be closed indefinitely," McLaughlin said. "We have some time to make up to get it done by next fall."

Claire Bessette