CORNISH, N.H. (AP) The New Hampshire Department of Transportation hopes to start work next year on a project to eliminate erosion around supports of a historic covered bridge connecting the state to Vermont.

The Eagle Times reports state officials met with the Cornish Selectboard and residents during a public hearing on the $2 million project.

Officials say the flood-related erosion, known as scour, is critical at the 149-year-old Cornish-Windsor Bridge.

The project calls for the removal of vegetation around the abutment on the New Hampshire side. It would be replaced with stone to create a smooth surface on the downstream side. The Vermont abutment will receive the same treatment, but on the upstream side.

Officials hope to start the project in September 2016.

Today's top stories

Construction Market Boosts Economy

Bobcat Company Donates $885,000 in Equipment to Support Salvation Army's Disaster Relief Efforts

VIDEO: KEMROC Expands; Plans to Increase Nationwide Presence

'Machinery Pete' Interviews Jack Lyon On RFD TV

VIDEO: First of Two Sections of NYC's $1.45B East Side Coastal Resiliency Project Is Complete

John Deere Construction Introduces Flexible Customer Training Options

INFRA Grant Moves Ohio's N. Coast Connector Project Steps Closer

Ohio Gov. Announces Millions for Local Bridge Improvements