By Ted Hayes

The state move to replace the culvert/bridge over Kirby Brook on Drift Road began in 2021, following an inspection of the structure by Mass DOT engineers. According to that report, the undated structure has multiple problem areas, including:

• Headwalls: The bridge’s east headwall, the main portion of the structure running the length of the bridge, has a large crack extending the full width of the wall. In addition, there are multiple spalled — deteriorated, chipped and rough — areas of concrete throughout the wall. On the west headwall, a crack was found above one of the culvert’s three 48” diameter pipes, running from the top of the headwall to the pipe.

•Wingwalls: These portions of the structure, which run perpendicular to the main structure at each end “generally app

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