The Sherman Bridge, a wooden bridge linking Wayland and Sudbury, Massachusetts since the 18th century, is showing its age and stirring up debate over its future.

Originally built in 1743, the bridge predates the Declaration of Independence by more than three decades. It was last rebuilt in the early 1990s, but after years of wear from vehicle traffic, officials say it now needs repairs.

For longtime residents like Jeff Stein, a retired architect who has lived near the bridge for decades, the structure represents more than a way to cross the river.

"There's been a wedding on this bridge, there are people who are painters who come and paint the terrific landscape here," said Stein. "It's part of the neighborhood. It gives the place identity."

The Sherman Bridge linking Wayland and Sudbur

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