DOT to begin Arrigoni Bridge makeover

Middletown, Conn (WTNH) - The Department of Transportation is getting ready to give Middletown's Arrigoni Bridge a much needed makeover, but the project could create more than a year of traffic troubles in the area.

It was 1936 when the Charles J. Arrigoni bridge first began to take its memorable shape. Almost 75 years later, it's in rough shape.

"They say it's real bad, so if they don't get it done, what could happen," said Dave Csere from Portland.

One of the longest bridges in the state is getting its first major upgrade since 1993. The first phase of construction is slated to start next month, but the preparatory work starts Tuesday. Not long after that, traffic flow could look and feel different.

"It's going to be a real mess. People are going to be crazy. If there is an accident now, it's backed up for an hour," Csere said.

The sixteen month project involves replacing concrete filled steel decking and sidewalks. During the height of construction, there will be one lane in both directions. Drivers have the choice to deal with that, or find an alternate route around the river.

"You can go up to East Haddam, there's a bridge there. Go over to Glastonbruy, that's another 30-to-45 minutes out of my way to go to work. I'll probably have to go to work a little early," said Csere.

Officials say the project is due to be completed by October 2012.