MDOT outlines Oceanville bridge replacement options; town told granite-facing could cost about $200,000

MDOT engineer Andrew Lathe and consultant Jaime French briefed the Stonington selectmen on proposals to replace the Oceanville bridge, explaining structural concerns and aesthetic options.

Lathe told the board the northern piling is significantly compromised and rests on glacial till rather than bedrock, meaning a simple replacement of the metal span would not address foundational instability. The MDOT team outlined options including full replacement and granite-facing to maintain historic aesthetics; they estimated granite-facing at roughly $200,000 and discussed a municipal agreement that could make the town responsible for about half the cost.

Members of the public asked whether the department could use concrete or other methods to shore up the piling, and MDOT staff said the lack of bedrock makes some options impracticable and that alternate designs (including a one-lane bridge with traffic signals) could also be considered. The board thanked MDOT and said it would solicit community feedback before deciding whether to accept a municipal agreement that would commit local funds.

What happens next: MDOT plans further outreach and abutter meetings; the selectmen will consider community feedback and whether to pursue a municipal agreement to fund granite-facing or other aesthetic features.