SWANZEY, N.H.  (MyKeeneNow) – The Denman Thompson Highway bridge, a crucial crossing over the Ashuelot River, will remain closed longer than anticipated due to unforeseen complications in its ongoing repair project.

Originally expected to reopen in August, the bridge is now set to stay closed until mid-September, according to a news release from the Town of Swanzey.

The repair work, managed by Cold River Bridge, LLC, began in May after the several structural issues were identified that needed addressing. However, the project hit a snag when workers discovered the concrete decking required more extensive reclamation than initially planned. Compounding the delay, the delivery of a critical expansion joint was held up due to supply chain disruptions.

Despite the setbacks, the town has made arrangements to ensure that school buses can cross the bridge safely as needed. In the meantime, all other traffic, including pedestrians, has been rerouted. Passenger vehicles and foot traffic are being directed to the nearby Denman Thompson Covered Bridge on Main Street, while alternative routes have been established for larger vehicles.

This project, funded by the Town Owned Bridges Capital Reserve Fund and state funds allocated through House Bill 2 in 2023, is projected to cost just under $300,000. The state is contributing nearly $72,000 to the total.