By Matt Eddy, MMOC Administrator
When trees grow between the stones in bridges, a number of problems can result. Tree roots expand and push the stones apart; water can enter the cracks and worsen freeze-thaw cycles; and retained moisture promotes moss growth, which degrades the stones themselves.
The process may take years, but eventually the structural integrity of the bridge can be compromised. The MMOC is working with Muddy River bridge owners (Brookline, Boston, DCR, and MassDOT) to promote a more systematic approach to routine inspection and maintenance and to identify funding sources for structural assessments of all the Muddy River bridges.
