The Windy Row bridge over the McDowell Reservoir will close indefinitely to all vehicular traffic beginning Wednesday, March 25, after officials determined the structure has deteriorated to a dangerous condition.
The bridge, which spans the spillway for Halfmoon Pond, was ordered closed following a March 23 Select Board meeting, where Chair Betsy Villaume told more than 40 residents that its condition has been worsening for years.
Since 2020, the New Hampshire Department of Transportation has inspected the bridge annually, adding it to the state’s Municipal Red List of deficient structures after its 2025 report.
A November inspection cited accelerated material deterioration, girder bowing and significant rusting. The bridge’s superstructure rating dropped from a 4 to a 3, while the deck and substructure were rated a 4.
Villaume explained the state’s nine-point rating system, and Select Board member Virginia Smith added, “Anything rated four or below is classified as poor, which is a nice way of saying ‘dangerous.’ The sooner we close it, the better.”
The state declined to recommend a revised weight limit for the bridge — previously rated for 15 tons — instead advising the town to consult an engineer. Select Board member Peter Webster said he would be surprised if any engineer would certify the structure, given its condition.
Residents voiced concern during the meeting.
“Since I moved here, the sound of the bridge has changed,” resident Tina Trudel said. “I’ve heard vehicles drive over the bridge and I’ve wondered when I’ll hear a large crack.”
“I’m surprised you haven’t closed it already,” resident Nathaniel Peirce added. “I’m not driving over it again and I’ve been doing so for a long time.”
Town officials have notified Peterborough and Harrisville, and emergency dispatch will route responders around the closure.
Public Works Director Tyler Howe said state funding for Red List bridges is unlikely in the near future.
“There are 120 bridges ahead of ours, so I wouldn’t expect any repairs within the next 10 years,” he said.
Replacing the bridge is estimated to cost more than $3 million, while demolition alone would cost hundreds of thousands. For now, the town plans to keep the structure open for pedestrians, cyclists and horseback riders.