LITTLETON — Replacement of McIver Bridge, which carries West Ridge Road over B Stream, has begun, according to Maine Department of Transportation officials.

The timber and steel bridge will be replaced with a concrete slab on concrete abutements and will be a foot higher and 14 feet longer than the old bridge.

Cost of the project, to be done by Dec. 1 by A&V Construction Corp. of Jay, is $163,146. The old bridge was closed when it suffered extensive damage and will remain closed during reconstruction.