Selectmen press for clarity on Oceanville bridge options as MDOT outlines cost and geotechnical constraints

MDOT engineers briefed Stonington Selectmen on the Oceanville bridge replacement project and described geotechnical constraints that limit restoration options.

MDOT representatives, including engineer Andrew Lathe, told the board that the northern piling is compromised and not founded on bedrock, complicating efforts to simply replace the metal span and to reattach or restore original granite abutments. Engineers discussed options — including using concrete or an engineered granite facing — and outlined estimates for aesthetic work. MDOT indicated a municipal agreement could cover 50% of the granite facing cost should the town wish to pursue restoration that preserves the historic look.

Community members pressed MDOT representatives about alternatives, including whether concrete or other measures could strengthen pilings; MDOT said bedrock conditions and foundation stability drive feasibility. The board discussed one‑lane bridge options with traffic signals as a lower‑impact alternative and asked MDOT for continued public outreach and cost estimates.

Separately, Selectmen noted the congressional delegation had secured approximately $200,000 to support a causeway study, which the town expected to use for replacement planning. The town asked MDOT to return for further site meetings and follow‑up discussion before selecting a course of action.

Next steps: MDOT and the town will continue outreach, refine cost estimates, and consider municipal agreement options; the Selectmen sought additional public meetings and clearer project cost/financing plans.