NEWBURYPORT/
WEST NEWBURY – Closed to vehicles for eight years, the Middle Street/Plummer Springs Bridge on the border of West Newbury and Newburyport saw its first vehicles cross the Upper Artichoke Reservoir, the drinking water supply for both communities, following a final inspection on Sept. 22.
The new bridge, closed in 2018 when a spandrel wall failed, replaces an aging structure that serves as a critical transportation link between West Newbury and Newburyport.
The approximately $3.66 million project was funded primarily through state and federal grant programs, including the MassDOT Small Bridge Program, the MassWorks Infrastructure Program and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding.
“The completion of the Middle Street Bridge reflects years of partnership, perseverance, and shared commitment among local, state, and federal partners,” said Sean Fitzgerald, town manager for the Town of West Newbury. “I was fortunate to inherit a fully funded and substantially completed project thanks to the leadership and dedication of former Town Manager Angus Jennings, whose hard work over many years helped make this project a reality. Today we celebrate not only a new bridge, but the strong partnership between our communities and everyone who contributed to its success.”
Newburyport mayor Sean Reardon said, “The Middle Street Bridge is a great example of what can be accomplished when neighboring communities work together. This project improves safety, strengthens connectivity and represents a lasting investment in our residents and our region.”
The ribbon cutting by officials from both communities is scheduled at 11 a.m. Friday.
The bridge’s construction costs are offset by a $1 million-grant to West Newbury from the state’s MassWorks and separate MassDOT Small Bridge grants to West Newbury and Newburyport of $750,000 each. West Newbury also used $25,000 of its American Rescue Plan Act funds in January 2024 to support on-going expenses needed to secure these grants.
In addition, both communities are getting reclaimed granite from the old bridge that they can use for other projects. One of the first projects was the wall at West Newbury’s pickleball courts. ♦
