The Westport Cross Highway bridge replacement project has begun in Westport.

Nearby roadways will be closed until the expected completion of the project on Aug. 20.

The bridge resides over Dead Man’s Brook and once replaced will be five feet wider.

The extra space will allow the town to add a sidewalk along the bridge. Throughout the closure period, local traffic is set follow a designated detour route.

The detour will direct drivers to use Cross Highway, Bayberry Lane, Long Lots Road and North Avenue as alternate routes for transportation.