Frequently Asked Questions

The bridge needs full rehabilitation, still won't solve flooding or weight restrictions, and is less cost-effective than a new driveway.

The driveway is out of the floodway, creates no rise in flood elevations, and has less than one acre of land disturbance. Stormwater flows will improve post construction which don’t exist with the current driveway.

Although 42 trees will be removed, at least 60 new trees and shrubs will be planted. (Permitting requires only 44 trees.)

The driveway design complements the Blind Brook restoration. This is an opportunity to remove invasive ground cover, invasive trees, and establish new riparian plants once the projects are complete.

There are no current plans to include lighting in the driveway design.

The unused portion will become a pedestrian-only gravel pathway. The bridge remains intact.

Yes. The design supports two-way vehicle traffic throughout.

Yes. Plans include a gravel bump-out accommodating 8–10 cars and an emergency pull off area.

Site preparation for the new entrance driveway is anticipated to begin in February or March 2027, with construction expected to start in June to minimize disruptions during the school year.

Once underway, construction is expected to take several months to complete, with the exact timeline to be confirmed as plans are finalized. The new driveway will initially serve as an access route for construction of the Wachenheim Center for Environmental Education before opening for public use as the Nature Center's new primary entrance.

Yes! Rye Nature Center will remain open and continue offering programs throughout construction. We are committed to minimizing disruptions to our programs and visitors, and construction activities will be carefully coordinated around our programming schedules whenever possible.

Safety fencing and other appropriate measures will be in place to protect visitors, participants, and staff. We have also engaged a dedicated Owner’s Representative to help oversee construction, coordinate schedules, and ensure that our programs can continue safely with little to no disruption.