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DOT Finds 'Deficiencies' With Westport Bridge, Lowers Weight Limit

WESTPORT, Conn. -- The weight limit on the Kings Highway North Bridge over Willow Brook, in Westport, has been down-rated, effective immediately. 

The Kings Highway North Bridge is subject to immediate weight restrictions.

The Kings Highway North Bridge is subject to immediate weight restrictions.

Photo Credit: Town of Westport

State Department of Transportation inspections recently found deficiencies with the bridge.

While CT DOT regularly inspects municipal -- non-state highway -- bridges spanning over 20 feet, the under-20-foot bridges, like this one, haven't been inspected since 1992.

The change won't affect passenger vehicles. Load rating signs have been posted and will be in effect until further notice. Only vehicles with a gross weight over 4 tons will be detoured.

"Once the recommendation to detour vehicles over 4 tons was received, immediate action was taken and all necessary precautions were implemented to insure that public safety is not compromised," First Selectman Jim Marpe said.

"The Department of Public Works will now have sufficient time to review the bridge structure and determine the proper course of action to further insure its safety while the road remains open to passenger vehicular traffic."

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