The project is substantially complete. A ribbon-cutting event was held on November 12, 2024.
Recent Developments:
Bike Line & Concrete Planters
Railings
New Parapet Walls and Decorative Lighting
The project plans were also updated to include the extension of the cycle track and pedestrian walkway down the southeast ramp to Canal Street. The ramp has been permanently closed to motor vehicles. Access to Bridge Street from Canal Street has been routed to the new roadway through the former Spongx property that now houses the Canal Street Lofts Building.
The Derby-Shelton Bridge carries Bridge Street (State Road 712) over the Housatonic River between Downtown Shelton and Downtown Derby. The bridge is a primary crossing of the Housatonic River within the Naugatuck Valley Region and is a critical element of the regional infrastructure. The bridge was built in 1918 and is historically significant. While the substructure is in good condition, many elements have deteriorated over time, including the pavement structure, parapet walls, and lighting.
The intent of the project is to renovate and rehabilitate the elements along the top of the bridge and enhance the bridge’s aesthetics. Because it connects two downtowns, there is an opportunity to improve not only its function but also its form and create an aesthetically pleasing public space for pedestrians and bicyclists. The project limits extend from the intersection with Route 34 (Main Street) in Derby to the west end of the Derby-Shelton Bridge and includes the connections to Canal Street.
The project is being designed by AECOM under contract to the NVCOG. Construction will be advertised and administrated by the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT).
The bridge now includes a second through travel lane in the eastbound direction and a two-cycle track for bicyclists which provides a wider pedestrian plaza. In addition, existing deteriorated elements have been replaced and upgraded.
The recently completed project included:
- Replacement of Bridge Parapet Walls: The new concrete parapet walls replicate the style of the original to maintain the bridge’s historic character. A decorative railing, matching the style of Veterans Memorial Park in Shelton, was added atop the parapet to enhance pedestrian safety.
- Roadway Improvements: These included adding a second eastbound lane, replacing the bituminous pavement and underlying concrete deck, and narrowing the shoulders to allow for the additional lane. The intersection at Route 34 (Main Street) in Derby was adjusted, with lane arrangements modified to include a dedicated right-turn lane.
- Enhanced Pedestrian and Bicycle Facilities: A larger pedestrian space was created on the south side, alongside a bi-directional cycle track, which separates cyclists from both vehicular traffic and pedestrians. Textured pavement and buffer zones with planters will help define these spaces. The new cycle track and pedestrian plaza connect with the Derby Greenway and Shelton’s Riverwalk.
- Lighting Upgrades: Outdated “cobra-style” lighting was replaced with period-style decorative lights installed along the parapet walls. These lights enhance the bridge’s nighttime visibility and adhere to dark-sky guidelines, complementing the new lighting being installed as part of Route 34 (Main Street) reconstruction project to create a unified aesthetic.
A meeting was held on February 26, 2020, to provide updated project details to residents, commuters, business owners, and other interested individuals. Click here for minutes.
Photo Gallery
Construction Drawings and Renderings
Other Relevant Projects
Staff Contact:
Richard Donovan
Transportation Planning Director
rdonovan@nvcogct.gov