SALEM — A Connecticut Department of Transportation proposal to rehabilitate the Route 11 bridges over the Eightmile River anticipates approximately four to six weeks of full highway closures and signed detours during construction expected to begin in spring 2029. Exact closure dates and detour streets have not been established in the reviewed material; this is a construction proposal, not a current road closure.
Project 0120-0097 covers northbound bridge 02393 and southbound bridge 02394, about six-tenths of a mile north of Route 82. CTDOT’s June 2026 project description proposes new box beams, decks and safety barriers while retaining and repairing the existing abutments. Additional work would occur before and after the full-closure period.
The current project page lists an estimated $16 million cost, with 80 percent federal and 20 percent state funding. The anticipated start depends on funding, permits and other project requirements. CTDOT says no right-of-way impacts are anticipated.
A virtual public meeting is scheduled for November 19, 2026, at 7 p.m., and comments are accepted through December 3. Residents can use CTDOT’s project page to find participation and comment information.
The accompanying file photograph shows Route 11 approaching Route 82 in Salem. It illustrates the highway corridor and does not identify either bridge or show construction in progress.
This report was prepared with AI from CTDOT’s current project page and its June 2026 project description. It is not firsthand reporting.