WESTPORT — Drivers in the area of the Cavalry Road bridge at the Westport-Weston border are advised to expect wider traffic detours and traffic delays this week as new beams are scheduled to be installed for the bridge replacement project.

Beam installation for the new span will take place — weather permitting — from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, through Friday, March 4, according to an announcement from Town Engineer Keith Wilberg.

The bridge, crossing the west branch of the Saugatuck River, is being replaced at a cost of roughly $2.5 million.

It has been closed to traffic since last year, when construction got underway.

Because the contractor will be using local roads to deliver an oversized crane and bridge beams via tractor trailer this week, expanded detour routes and possible traffic delays near the work site will result.

The wider detour area includes Cavalry Road, Crooked Mile Road, Red Coat Road and Hermit Lane, as well as other nearby roads and driveways along those routes. 

Residents of the affected area have been notified of the detours, according to the announcement.

Signs will be posted along the detour routes, and police will be assigned to monitor traffic passing through area.  

After the new beams are installed, the earlier detour pattern around the span will be in effect until the project is completed.

Questions can be directed to Wilberg at 203-341-1128.