Mayors Lauretti and Staffieri Announce $265,000 Grant for the Derby-Shelton Bridge

The Derby-Shelton Bridge crosses over the Housatonic River and connects the cities of Derby and Shelton. It connects Route 34 in downtown Derby with Route 110 in downtown Shelton. The current bridge was built in 1918 by the Connecticut State Highway Department to replace a former steel-arch bridge built in 1891 known as the Huntington Bridge. Prior to that, an even older wooden covered bridge (built in 1857) was at this site. The Derby-Shelton Bridge used to carry two street railway tracks until the 1930s.

Most recently a study was undertaken by Tate and Associates with funding from the Derby Shelton Rotary which was intended to be a “first step” in soliciting public awareness and funding sources for the renovation of the bridge which is badly in need of cosmetic repairs and enhancements

Through the Valley Council of Governments, Shelton Economic Development Corporation, and Derby’s Director of Economic and Community Development applied for Transit Oriented Development (TOD) project funds to enhance the Derby Shelton Bridge and to create a design for the eventual rehabilitation of the bridge. The funding comes through the Department of Transportation and the Office of Policy and Management. The design will include bike paths, walking paths and new lighting and railings. The bridge will be designed to move pedestrians and bicyclists through Derby and Shelton’s downtown freely and through attractive walkable paths. Bridge enhancements will help make it easier for residents and visitors to connect to downtowns and the Derby Shelton Train Station.

“This project will connect Derby’s downtown which will include retail/restaurant pads with over 250 residential units being constructed in downtown Shelton. This is a perfect example of cooperation between neighboring communities. The design and eventual rehabilitation of this bridge will help bring more residents into our downtown areas.” Said Mayor Lauretti

“I am pleased to work with Mayor Lauretti in bringing this project to our cities and towns. It shows what can be accomplished when communities work together to enhance their infrastructure.” Said Mayor Staffieri.  

  Story posted on November 1, 2011