The Gen. John Stark Memorial Bridge, which connects Hinsdale, NH, and Brattleboro, VT, has officially opened, marking the completion of a 30-year planning and construction effort. After three years of building, the $62.5 million bridge replaces the old truss bridges and promises to ease traffic while boosting the region's economy.

At the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 3, local officials and laborers who contributed to the bridge's construction were celebrated for their efforts despite weather challenges. "It’s really about the people that actually built this thing," said Daniel Quipp, chair of the Brattleboro Select Board.

The bridge is designed to handle nearly 9,000 vehicles daily, relieving traffic congestion in downtown Brattleboro, particularly around the notorious "Malfunction Junction" where delays were frequent. "It’s going to clean up that intersection and make it more efficient," said Gregory Lesch, executive director of the Brattleboro Area Chamber of Commerce.

The bridge, named after the American Revolutionary officer Gen. John Stark, is expected to enhance economic opportunities across both states. Local leaders, including New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu and Vermont Rep. Mollie Burke, highlighted the decades of efforts that brought the project to completion. The bridge is part of a long-term vision first proposed in 1977.

As part of a collaboration between the two states, the new bridge was funded with federal and state resources, with New Hampshire covering most of the costs. The project’s success is seen as a symbol of state cooperation and determination to improve infrastructure.

"This is an absolute home run, not just for New Hampshire, but for all of New England," Sununu said.