Demolition begins as Interstate 95 closure in Norwalk enters 2nd day

NORWALK, Conn. (WTNH) — The full closure of Interstate 95 in Norwalk entered its second day on Friday after a three-vehicle crash and ensuing fire damaged an overpass.

Norwalk schools were closed on Friday due to traffic concerns. The interstate is expected to reopen on Monday morning at the earliest.

Demolition began around 3 a.m. Friday morning. Crews planned to bring in equipment to remove the bridge’s pillars later in the day. The road itself will also need to be resurfaced.

It could take another year before the overpass is rebuilt.

“This is a team effort,” Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling said. “Where we are today is remarkably further than I thought we’d be when this first happened.”

The closure is in place while crews demolish the Fairfield Avenue bridge. The bridge, which is less than a decade old, was severely damaged by the fire, which ignited directly underneath the structure.

Officials urged patience and suggested for anyone who can work from home to do so. Drivers are also asked to avoid all non-essential travel in the Norwalk area.

“Stay away from this area for at least another 72 hours,” Gov. Ned Lamont said during a press conference on Friday. “Take the train. Stay home.”

Lamont said that the blaze started after a car sideswiped a tractor-trailer, and then a tanker truck, causing it to catch fire directly underneath the overpass.

Drone video on Thursday showed the aftermath of the fire.

Lamont has filed an emergency declaration with the federal government in order to receive funds to pay for replacing the bridge.

With an estimated cost of at least $20 million, Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) noted Friday that national funds are set aside to handle similar emergencies, and that loans are also available if needed.

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