Westport To Form Cribari Bridge Advisory Committee

WESTPORT, CT — Westport First Selectman Kevin Christie said this week that the town is forming a Cribari Bridge Advisory Committee, following a recent Connecticut Department of Transportation public hearing on the Saugatuck bridge’s future.

The hearing, held last month, drew significant public participation and highlighted a range of concerns, including traffic, safety, neighborhood impact, historical context and long-term costs.

State transportation officials have identified a preferred option for the Route 136 bridge, though a final decision has not been made. The environmental review process is ongoing.

According to Christie, the advisory committee will include both technical experts and community members. The group is expected to review potential bridge options, including structural and design considerations, and assess their impact on the community, funding requirements and long-term maintenance.

The committee will provide recommendations to the First Selectman but will not have decision-making authority or replace the state’s formal review process. Its role is to support the town’s engagement with the DOT by offering analysis and facilitating public input.

"Westport has a real stake in this project for our neighborhoods, our infrastructure, and our fiscal future," Christie said in a statement. "This Advisory Committee will build on the Town’s discussions with the DOT by grounding decisions in facts, incorporating community input, and identifying solutions that work for Westport."

Residents are encouraged to participate in the state process. The public comment period for the DOT’s Environmental Assessment remains open through April 17, and comments can be submitted through the DOT’s online portal, by email to James.Barrows@ct.gov, or by mail to:

Connecticut Department of Transportation
ATTN: James Barrows
P.O. Box 317546
Newington, CT 06131-7546

Submissions should reference Project No. 0158-0214.

Additional information about the advisory committee, including its membership, is expected to be released at a later date.