Community Corner
Portland Selectman Voice Cost Concerns for Lighting Arrigoni Bridge
Middletown Mayor Dan Drew is reviving a concept to adorn the bridge with LEDs, a project that could cost several thousands of dollars.
Portland's selectmen spoke favorably about a proposal to light the Arrigoni Bridge with bright LEDs.
But in an interview with The Middletown Press, those same elected officials said the costs for the whole project were a concern.
Portland First Selectman Susan Bransfield told The Press that, after speaking with Mayor Dan Drew, the cost to fully light the bridge could be upwards of $3.5 million — a part of which would be paid for by grant funding still in Middletown's possession.
Still, some members of the Portland Board of Selectmen told The Press the idea is still worth exploring.
The bridge carries motorists over the Connecticut River from Middletown to Portland, and earlier this month Drew revived a long-discussed proposal to lace the bridge with LEDs. The concept is to create a notable tourist attraction for the towns and the area.
Drew has since been working with an engineering firm to determine the cost of the project.
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