PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The state Department of Transportation will hold a virtual information meeting on the proposed replacement of the Pontoosuc Avenue bridge.

 

The new 65-foot span over the West Branch of the Housatonic River near the intersection with Wahconah Street will include complete bridge reconstruction and Americans with Disabilities Act compliant upgrades to the pedestrian facilities. The total length of the project along the roadway is approximately 455 linear feet and will include the addition of a 5-foot shoulder bike lane, reconstruction of the sidewalk and new pavement markings and signage.

 

This project is planned to be funded through the 2026 Transportation Improvement Program for the Berkshire Metropolitan Planning Organization at an estimated cost of $7.7 million. 

 

Construction is expected to begin in fall 2026. 

 

The bridge will be closed to all modes of transportation during construction. There is no potential for a temporary vehicular or pedestrian bridge given the site characteristics and adjacent properties. Vehicle and pedestrian detours are required to provide adequate accessibility accommodation.

 

A secure right-of-way is necessary for this project. Acquisitions in fee and permanent or temporary easements may be required. The city is responsible for acquiring all needed rights in private or public lands. MassDOT's policy concerning land acquisitions will be presented at the hearing.

 

Reasonable accommodations and/or language assistance is free of charge upon request (e.g interpreters in American Sign Language and languages other than English, live captioning, videos, assistive listening devices and alternate material formats), as available.