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The Town Managers of Sudbury and Wayland (Andy Sheehan and Michael McCall) have formally endorse a proposed renovation of Sherman’s Bridge, which connects the two towns, in a letter addressed to residents of each town.
Originally reconstructed in 1992 after being closed in 1989, Sherman’s Bridge has long served as a key connector for commuters, cyclists, and emergency vehicles. The proposed project will focus on ensuring the bridge remains safe, functional, and visually consistent with its scenic surroundings according to the letter.
The letter identified specific benefits that both Town Managers deemed “substantial”:
- Structural Longevity: Replacement of all lam boards with an asphalt wearing surface. This will maximize the bridge’s service life and reduce future maintenance needs.
- Noise &Vibration Reduction: Smoother decking will eliminate the board rattle that loosens fasteners and accelerates deterioration. This will result in quieter operation and a longer-lasting structure.
- Improved Safety: Installation of crash-tested guardrails will significantly enhance safety for all who travel the bridge.
- Environmental Protection: Storm water will be routed to the bridge ends, where it can be properly filtered through gravel and riprap. This will result in improved water quality entering the Sudbury River.
- Wildlife & Habitat Preservation: Reduced noise and vibration will help protect the tranquility of the surrounding area. This will benefit local wildlife and the unique natural setting.
They also cited fiscal prudence of collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation “Equally important, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation has committed to funding the project’s materials and is strongly considering covering construction costs as well. This represents a significant savings for both towns and a rare opportunity to complete a major infrastructure project with minimal direct local taxpayer burden.”
While the Town Managers are throwing their weight behind the project, there has also been public opposition, including strong turnout at a recent visioning session held in Sudbury. During that event the bulk of the attendees voiced opposition to the project overall, or to specific elements of the design concepts presented.
Concerns about the project range from a desire to protect the historical character of the bridge to environmental and traffic impacts. However, proponents argue that the rehabilitation project will preserve the character of the bridge while enhancing safety and mitigating environmental/stormwater impacts from the current state of the bridge.
In an October 21 letter to a concerned resident, Sudbury’s Conservation Coordinator, Lori Capone, explained that the Sudbury Conservation Commission will have an opportunity to review the project, but has not signed off on it yet. “The Conservation Commission has not provided input into this project. The Agents and DPWs met on site once to discuss what type of permitting would be needed. The Agents highlighted the need to provide stormwater management if the surface was going to be paved but we have not reviewed any plans in relation to this. Wayland had requested the Agents sign a letter of support for this project which I had responded that we were not in a position to be able to do without having vetted the project with the Conservation Commission.”
The Sudbury Historical Commission had Sherman’s Bridge on their agenda for October 21, but the recording of the discussion is not yet available on-demand on SudburyTV.