
MERRITT – The bridge to be replaced spans Trent Creek, which is a tributary of Bay River. Originally constructed in 1960, the bridge is nearing the end of its service life, and according to state highway officials, a new one is required.
To get the job done, the N.C. Department of Transportation awarded S.T. Wooten Corp. of Wilson a $5.7 million contract in July. To minimize traffic disruptions, part of the bid pays for a temporary crossing, which started construction in early September alongside the existing bridge. However, as regular motorists will attest, this has been no easy feat. Clea…