IPSWICH — (Photo) Director of Public Works Rick Clarke and the Town of Ipswich announce
upcoming changes to the traffic pattern on the County Street Bridge.
The Town was notified by the Massachusetts Department of Transportation that the
County Street Bridge has structural deficiencies that will require the bridge to be closed
to southbound traffic. As a result, a section of County Street between Elm Street and
the northern end of the County Street Bridge will become a one-way for vehicles
heading north.
Additionally, MassDOT has put in place a 15-ton weight limit for the bridge. These changes will go into effect today September 28, 2022.
Signage and barriers will be posted in the area to alert community members of the
changes. This traffic setup will be in place until further notice, so community members
are asked to plan accordingly.
The Department of Public Works is working with TetraTech on design options for the
needed repairs/improvements while concurrently working with MassDOT to secure
funding to assist with the repair work.
“It is unfortunate that we have to close the bridge to southbound traffic, but it is an
important step in helping reduce the capacity and strain on this bridge,” Director Clarke
said. “While the bridge is still safe for travel, we want to amend these structural
deficiencies before they can worsen. We will keep residents updated on our progress
as we make improvements and thank residents for their patience and understanding
during this time.”
For questions regarding this traffic change please contact the DPW
at dpw@ipswichma.gov or 978-356-6612.
