Governor Ned Lamont, alongside Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto and Congressman Joe Courtney, announced the reopening of the East Haddam Swing Bridge following its major rehabilitation. The bridge, which is 112 years old and carries Route 82 over the Connecticut River between Haddam and East Haddam, has undergone significant upgrades to improve its mechanical and electrical systems, substructure, and roof.
The project included the addition of a new sidewalk on the south side of the bridge, connecting to newly constructed sidewalks on both sides of the river. This enhancement provides a safer crossing for pedestrians and cyclists. The $88.8 million project was funded with 80% federal and 20% state funds, managed by the Connecticut Department of Transportation. Construction began in September 2022 and concluded in May 2025.
Governor Lamont emphasized the importance of this infrastructure investment: “The East Haddam Swing Bridge is both a transportation lifeline and a state landmark,” he said. “Thanks to this investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we’re preserving a key piece of infrastructure for the next generation while making it safer and more accessible for everyone who uses it.”
Commissioner Eucalitto noted that this comprehensive rehabilitation replaces previous temporary fixes: “We’re no longer applying a ‘band-aid’ fix. This full rehabilitation ensures the East Haddam Swing Bridge will continue serving Connecticut for many decades to come,” he stated.
Congressman Courtney highlighted the effective use of federal funds: “The modernization of the iconic East Haddam Swing Bridge is a stellar example of how federal infrastructure dollars are supposed to work,” he remarked.
Originally constructed in 1913 by the American Bridge Company, the bridge has been fully rehabilitated by that same company while maintaining its historical significance. The bridge consists of four spans, including a moveable swing span that required specific upgrades due to operational issues found during inspections.
A news conference at Eagles Landing State Park in Haddam marked this milestone with an oxen display reminiscent of the original ribbon-cutting ceremony in June 1913.
