Governor Peter Shumlin joined Mayor Chris Louras, transportation officials and legislators at the Ripley Bridge to highlight the latest in a series of transportation improvement projects in Rutland City. In a year that has seen major infrastructure projects involving close cooperation between The Agency of Transportation (VTrans) and municipal teams, the Ripley and Dorr bridges are the latest example of the state working with downtowns to provide the infrastructure needed to sustain commerce and quality of life. The Ripley and Dorr bridges are estimated to cost $5.5 million and $8.3 million respectively. This pair of bridges, combined with the $10.5million in paving and other downtown improvements are just part of the $685.7 million Transportation Bill that makes up one of the biggest construction years in the history of VTrans.
In 2008, Vermont ranked near the bottom of all states – 45th in the nation – for numbers of structurally deficient bridges. By 2013, the state ranked 28th. The overall percentage of structurally deficient bridges has declined from 19.7 percent in 2008 to just over 8 percent in 2013. The percentage of pavement rated in very poor condition has declined from a high of 36 percent in 2008 to only 21 percent in 2013. The state as also invested $19 million in improvements to the Western Corridor to bring us closer to our goal of delivering passenger rail service between Rutland and Burlington.
“We’re committed to supporting our downtowns as engines of our economy, said Shumlin. “The aging structures at these crossings have been impeding commerce and it’s time to move them off the books and back into service. We’re getting these legacy projects done so that downtowns can move forward.”
“The State understands how essential bridges and roads are to the health of our downtowns,” said Rutland Mayor Chris Louras. “The work that is being done here is fueling growth in our local economy and helping us be more competitive regionally.”
AOT Deputy Secretary Sue Minter agreed, adding, “We’re actively improving all modes of transportation in this part of the state. New intercity bus services, upgrades to the Rutland Regional Airport, shared use paths and our continuing effort to expand rail service to Burlington are all a part of ensuring that this region remains a vibrant commercial hub.”
“These bridges are examples of our statewide effort to improve the overall condition of our system,” continued Minter.
In addition to transportation projects, Vermont has invested significantly in improving downtowns, including Rutland. Among the investments: A $ 1.5 million Community Development Block Grant for neighborhood revitalization in Rutland, combating opiate abuse; supporting GMP’s quest to make Rutland the Solar Capital of New England; assisting the city after a fire destroyed Rutland Plywood; working with strengthen companies like Ellison Surface Technologies, GE-Rutland; and more.