Tentative approval given to close bridge in Massena

CANTON — St. Lawrence County lawmakers tentatively have authorized closing the County Route 45 bridge over the Raquette River in Massena.

The bridge, on the Rooseveltown Access Road off Route 37, has deteriorated severely over the years, Highway Superintendent William E. Dashnaw told the Legislature's Finance Committee on Monday.

"It's posted for 10 tons. No school buses or emergency vehicles can cross it," Mr. Dashnaw said. "It's been flagged 12 times since 2002, and I expect it would continue to be downgraded."

Mr. Dashnaw said a traffic count last year showed 600 vehicles crossing the bridge per day, but he believes traffic has decreased since work to remove the Route 37 traffic circle has finished.

Legislators are expected to give final approval to the bridge closure Dec. 7.