NH State Representative Steven Smith

There are plans to make extensive repairs to the bridge that goes to Springfield, VT. Closing this bridge for the better part of a year has far too much local impact. This project needs to be modified.

Safety

Many people in Charlestown use Springfield Hospital, and health care providers in Springfield. They should not have a more than 20 mile reroute to get to their doctors and potentially emergency care. This closure also means that if you have a medical event, you are going to Valley Regional whether you like it or not. There’s nothing wrong with Valley Regional, but people deserve a choice.

We currently have mutual aid with Springfield. Closing this bridge for months takes a fire department out of the equation. We want to keep as many sources of aid available as possible.

Economic

Losing our easy access to 191 will make it more costly for people to get to work, and encroach on your most valuable asset… time. People working in Springfield will have to almost double their travel time and fuel costs.

Goods shipped in and out of Charlestown will incur higher shipping costs. This cost is usually passed on to the consumer. That means higher prices on good leaving Charlestown, or lower profit margins. It also means higher prices on goods coming in to Charlestown.

Better Plan

The bridge project should be delayed until the state provides the extra $5 million needed for a temporary bridge. The temporary bridge would allow travel back and forth to continue during the duration of the project with minimal disruption to our lives, safety, and wallets.