The bridge over the Hammock River on Beach Park Road is set to be replaced in the next two to three years, and town officials are inviting residents to a public information session to learn more about the project.

The public information hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, March 1, at 7 p.m. A link to the Zoom meeting is available at clintonct.org.

Clinton Public Works Director Todd Hajek said the work is scheduled to be done possibly between 2025-'26, depending on project approvals. Hajek said that while the bridgework is being done, the bridge will be closed, and residents will need to use Shore Road to access the area on the other side.

Hajek explained that the issue with the bridge, which was built in 1947, has to do with the water flow under it.

“Bridge span has been identified as an issue to the proper water flow between the marsh and Long Island Sound. By increasing the span and replacing the tide gates, this project will alleviate risks of flooding as well as improving the health of the Marsh,” Hajek said.

Hajek said the project is expected to cost around $5 million, but funding is available from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and Ducks Unlimited.

“The goal of this project is to replace the bridge to cure issues with flood waters with little to no costs incurred by the town,“ Hajek said.

According to Hajek, more information and in-depth answers will be provided during the public meeting.

In recent years, Clinton has undertaken several bridge replacement projects. In 2019 and 2018, the town held similar information meetings ahead of the replacements of the Carter Hill Road bridge and Kelseytown Road Bridge, respectively.