Monroe County Executive Adam Bello Announces Reopening Of Gillett Road Bridge In Ogden

September 19th, 2025

CSX Completed Repairs Following Formal Demand from Bello Administration

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Monroe County Executive Adam Bello today announced the long-awaited reopening of the Gillett Road Bridge in the Town of Ogden, declaring it repaired, inspected, and safe for motorists after nearly two years of closure.

The bridge, which crosses the CSX railroad, was shut down in December 2023 by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) due to severe structural deterioration. The closure caused significant traffic delays and raised safety concerns by slowing emergency response times for local police, fire, and EMS agencies.

"After nearly two years of frustration and delays, I am proud to announce that the Gillett Road Bridge is finally open, safe, and ready for drivers," said County Executive Bello. "This project is a testament to what happens when government leaders and residents work together and refuse to let corporate inaction endanger our community."

The reopening comes after sustained advocacy from Monroe County and local partners. Following repeated complaints from residents, County attorneys issued a formal demand letter to CSX, requiring the company to repair or replace the bridge or face litigation. That action, paired with support from Congressman Joe Morelle, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Ogden Supervisor Mike Zale and County Legislator Bob Colby, pushed CSX to act.

"This is yet another example of government working together to solve people's problems, and I'm glad our neighbors in Ogden are finally getting the basic connection they need," said Congressman Joe Morelle. "I'm proud to have brought together County Executive Bello, Senator Schumer, Supervisor Zale, and countless other local leaders to address this issue. After years of advocacy, the people of Ogden finally have what they deserve."

U.S. Senator Charles Schumer said, "I am glad CSX has now heeded the call I made when I stood at the Gillette Road Bridge shoulder-to shoulder with local officials, residents and first responders to push CSX to uphold its obligations to fix this vital thoroughfare in the Town of Ogden. The re-opened bridge removes onerous delays and detours so local Monroe County residents can now safely and efficiently commute for work, shopping, or school - and first responders can quickly respond to emergencies. I was proud to stand with Congressman Joe Morelle, County Executive Adam Bello, Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale, and Legislator Colby to restore this critical crossing for the Greater Rochester community."

"I want to extend my sincere gratitude to County Executive Adam Bello, his staff, Legislator Colby, and the Ogden Town Board for their advocacy and support in seeing this project through. I also want to thank Winn Construction and our Highway Superintendent Doug Case for their hard work in keeping the repairs on track. Most importantly, I am grateful to the residents and first responders who stood with us on June 3rd to simply ask CSX to 'Be a Good Neighbor'. Their voices made the difference. It's official-what was once a roadblock is now a milestone. And we are thrilled to have had a hand in providing it to our residents," added Ogden Town Supervisor Mike Zale.

"The reopening of the Gillett Road Bridge is a long overdue victory for the people of Ogden and Spencerport," said Legislator Robert Colby. "This bridge is a vital connection for our families, commuters, and first responders. After nearly two years of unnecessary closure, we can finally celebrate its return. Today is a true win for our community that restores safer, faster travel and peace of mind for everyone who relies on this roadway."

CSX ultimately contracted Winn Construction Corporation to complete the necessary repairs, which have since passed inspection by both NYSDOT and the Monroe County Department of Transportation.

The Gillett Road Bridge is now officially open to all traffic.