POUGHKEEPSIE – The Dutchess County bridge on Dogtail Corner Road – CT 22 -- in the Town of Dover, will be replaced. The bridge crosses over Ten Mile River.

The project is part of the Dutchess County Department of Public Works’ continuing effort to revitalize the county’s highway system. 

“Bridge safety is always a major public safety concern, particularly in light of the tragic bridge collapse in Minnesota last year,” said County Executive William Steinhaus. “This bridge reconstruction helps to ensure the safety of more than 2,000 motorists who cross this bridge on a daily basis.”

The existing bridge superstructure, built in 1931, was found to be deficient and requires replacement, according to DCDPW.  The reconstructed bridge will be constructed in the same location, and use portions of the abutments of the existing structure.

Starting Monday, March 31st, a detour will be in place for motorists and a temporary pedestrian bridge will be installed adjacent to the existing structure to provide for safe passage of pedestrians during the construction of the new bridge.   

Total cost of the bridge replacement will be just under $1.4 million.   The project is funded with 80 percent federal funds and 20 percent Dutchess County funding.   The project is also eligible for a 15 percent state funding share, which would reduce the cost to county taxpayers to less than $70,000 or five percent.

The construction work is scheduled to be completed by fourth quarter 2008.