PALMER, Mass. (WWLP) – The town of Palmer announced Wednesday the Church Street bridge has officially opened as they prepare to construct a more permanent bridge over the next few years.
Man found dead around Mill Yard in Sturbridge The bridge has been closed since 2018 and was completely demolished last year. Now, after 18 months of construction, a new and improved temporary truss bridge now stands in its place.
This bridge serves as a crucial link between the Thorndike region and Route 32. The reopening of the bridge is a huge relief for locals we spoke with, who no longer have to deal with longer commutes and detours.
“Sometimes like especially in the winter I like to go that way, a little bit less hilly, and I like going that way,” said Melinda Harrison of Three Rivers. “It’s been closed for such a long time I’m happy it’s open.”
Plans are still in place to construct a permanent bridge, which is expected to be done over the next few years by MassDOT. “Completion of long and intricate projects that benefit the community are always great, and I hope the residents are as excited as I am, they deserve it,” said DPW Director Matthew Morse. “This was a complete team effort, special thanks to our contractor, Roach & Sons, our engineering firm Tighe & Bond, our Town Council, and our residents who have been very patient.”
The bridge connects the Thorndike region of the town to Route 32 and will be a direct route for college students moving out of the Amherst area in the coming months to the Mass. Pike.
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