Wayne infrastructure committee asks manager to seek engineering review for Tempe Bridge

The Town of Wayne infrastructure committee asked the town manager on Feb. 20, 2026, to solicit engineering proposals and funding options for the Tempe Bridge after a recent site review outlined three approaches to the structure.

A retired DOT engineer who consulted with committee members described three options: full replacement built to state 100‑year standards, which the committee heard could range "anywhere from $600,000 to $1,300,000"; replacing in kind under town ownership (estimates discussed around $400,000–$500,000); or a newer resin repair approach for which committee members had no firm cost estimate. Committee members also discussed that a state replacement done to the higher standard could transfer ownership and future maintenance responsibility to the state.

"For a full replacement, you estimated that could be anywhere from $600,000 to $1,300,000," Shannon, the town manager, reported to the committee based on the engineer's review. Committee members noted existing federal and state grant programs — such as the infrastructure adaptation fund and fisheries restoration grants — that might help offset costs but cautioned many grants require local matches.

After discussing whether to pursue bids, hire an engineering firm for a formal survey, or contact a private intermediary that can package financing and engineering, the committee voted to direct the town manager to reach out to engineering firms and potential funding sources and to report back with cost estimates and recommended next steps. The motion was moved and seconded and approved by the members present.

Next steps identified by the committee include seeking a minimal survey or proposal from recommended firms to refine cost ranges, confirming whether the bridge meets state thresholds for state takeover, and circulating any draft RFPs for engineering services to committee members for review before issuing them publicly.