For the August entry of Wright-Pierce’s 2026 Calendar Series (which highlights projects featured in our yearly calendar), we focus on construction engineering services provided for the Clothespin Bridge replacement in Webster, New Hampshire.
Project Background
Clothespin Bridge Road provides local access between US Route 4 and NH Route 127 in Webster, New Hampshire, crossing the Blackwater River on Bridge No. 121/103. The existing one-lane bridge had been placed on the New Hampshire Department of Transportation’s (NHDOT) Red List, creating a need for replacement with a safer, more reliable structure that could better serve the community.
Wright-Pierce supported the Town with construction-phase services for the bridge replacement. Construction is complete, and the new structure consists of a 107-foot, two-lane bridge comprised of steel beams and a reinforced concrete deck. The project includes the reconstruction of portions of Clothespin Bridge Road and Detour Road as part of the overall improvement effort.
Project Team Services
As a NHDOT Local Public Agency (LPA) project, the work required close coordination among the Town, NHDOT, the construction contractor, the Engineer of Record, and project subconsultants. Led by Project Manager Wes Nuhn, PE, and Resident Project Representative John Goshorn, Wright-Pierce’s role on this project focused on construction administration and resident project observation, helping the Town meet the requirements of the NH Municipally Managed State Bridge Aid Program and federal aid compliance expectations.
Wright-Pierce provided field observation, construction documentation, and compliance support throughout construction, including with NHDOT forms and records, daily labor compliance logs, photographs, punch list tracking, record drawings, financial summaries, and final reimbursement documentation. These services helped maintain a clear project record while supporting the Town through the LPA process.
With construction completed, the project team is finalizing documentation and closeout activities needed to prepare the improved crossing for turnover to the Town.
About The Clothespin Bridge Photo
The accompanying photo, taken by Ryan Beisaw, captures a key construction milestone as a crane lifts the new steel beams into place for the Clothespin Bridge replacement. Ryan said, “This was one of the more complex sites I have completed construction drone photos for. With the trees and overhead wires—while also being considerate of the crane operator during lifts—it made for tight windows to get good shots and there are no re-dos. You have to be ready at all times.”
Project Impact
The Clothespin Bridge replacement improves safety and reliability for residents, emergency responders, students, and local travelers by replacing the one-lane bridge with a new two-lane crossing over the Blackwater River. The project also strengthens an important local connection between US Route 4 and NH Route 127 and supports long-term mobility for the Webster community.
Contact us to learn more about our construction-phase services and how Wright-Pierce can support your community’s civil and transportation infrastructure needs.