Closed Jamestown Bridge On Track To Reopen This Month

JAMESTOWN – A City of Jamestown bridge closed for construction is on track to reopen this month.

The Chautauqua County’s Director of Public Facilities Brad Bentley says the Harrison Street Bridge replacement project is almost complete, although, crews still must secure the connection between the bridge and the road.

“We have to pour concrete to adjust the seams between the pre-cast beams,” said Bentley. “They use what is called heating blankets to make sure the concrete cures at a slow enough pace, so it doesn’t reduce the strength of the concrete.”

Bentley explains that some additional work, installing permanent sides of the bridge for example, will have to be completed in the spring.

Previously, the re-opening date was pushed back due to difficulties with soil conditions.

The new bridge is expected to last around 80 years. Bentley says it should open before January 1.