Manchester officials closed the Queen City Bridge on Monday after a routine state Department of Transportation inspection uncovered what the city described as potential structural deficiencies. The bridge, which carries Route 3 across the Merrimack River, will remain closed until engineers complete a more detailed assessment, officials said.
What inspectors found and what officials are saying
Deputy Director of Public Works Owen Friend-Gray said inspectors observed rust and a possible crack in a truss beneath the bridge during the examination. City leaders emphasized the closure was ordered out of an abundance of caution while crews determine whether the condition is structurally significant.
"It was something visually concerning that was seen by one of the inspectors at one of the structural bridge connections, and they are trying to determine if it's something that is structurally significant or not," said Owen Friend-Gray, deputy director of public works.
Mayor Jay Ruais said he has been in regular contact with the public works director and with the governor while the additional inspection is underway. He urged residents to follow official updates as the evaluation continues.
Local impacts: commuting, schools and health care access
The Queen City Bridge is a key connector in Manchester. City data show the span carries roughly 25,000 vehicles a day, making the unexpected closure a source of disruption for morning and evening commuters. Officials noted that drivers can still travel underneath the bridge on Interstate 293, but those who normally cross the river at the Queen City Bridge must use alternate crossings.
Public agencies and institutions are already reacting. Elliot Health System advised patients and visitors heading to Elliot at River's Edge to allow extra travel time and to use alternate routes. The Manchester School District said it is reviewing how the closure might affect bus runs and commute times for students.
- Bridge originally built in 1923.
- Deck replacement project completed in 2024 at a cost of $9.4 million.
- City reports about 25,000 vehicles use the crossing daily (as of 2025).
Detour guidance and travel options
City officials have suggested north and south detours to cross the Merrimack River while the Queen City Bridge is closed. One example route for drivers headed east involves using Queen City Avenue and Second Street, then turning north on Second Street and right onto Granite Street to cross the river.
| Suggested action | Reason |
|---|---|
| Use north or south river crossings | Avoids the closed Queen City Bridge and reduces congestion near the inspection site |
| Allow extra travel time | Detours and added traffic will lengthen commutes and bus routes |
Officials stressed the observed issues do not appear to be related to a nearby tunnel project or to recent work on the bridge. The deck replacement completed last year was a separate project, according to city statements.
Next steps and what residents should watch for
City and state bridge engineers are conducting a fuller inspection to determine whether the rust and possible crack affect the bridge's structural integrity. The Manchester Department of Public Works and the state DOT are expected to provide further information after the inspection is complete.
Residents are advised to monitor official city channels for updates, to follow posted detours, and to expect changes in school bus schedules and hospital travel routes while the closure remains in effect.
This report will be updated as the city and state release further findings from the inspection.
