The project will last until 2008 and will include the fabrication and erection of two lift towers and a lift span, re-location of the bridge tender's control house and the installation of new systems. There will also be modifications to the piers and the fender system that protects the piers from marine traffic.

The bridge was built in 1919 and its machinery is nearing the end of its lifespan. This is the first of three major moveable bridges in Connecticut that Amtrak plans to replace over the next 10 years.