Bridge in Northampton closed in aftermath of Minneapolis accident

[Ian David]

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. -- Commuters in Northampton will have to find an alternative to the Clement Street Bridge.

Acting on advice from state highway officials, the city blocked off the single-lane span over the Mill River Friday. The bridge will be closed until repairs are complete, which could take up to a year.

The bridge, first built in the 1890s, is the first in Massachusetts to be ordered closed since the August 1st Minneapolis bridge collapse that killed at least nine people.

Northampton Public Works Director Edward Huntley said an inspection of the Clement Street Bridge by the state in February found that supporting trusses had been weakened by rust. The city council set aside $300,000 for repairs and it was hoped that the bridge could remain open until construction began next spring.

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