New London ― The public is invited to comment Monday on a state plan to improve pedestrian and cyclist access to the Gold Star Memorial Bridge.

The state Department of Transportation will host a presentation and question-and-answer session at 7 p.m. at New London City Hall, 181 State St., related to planned improvements to the Interstate 95 southbound bridge sidewalk.

The project calls for widening the existing 5-foot-wide sidewalk, along with the east and west approaches to the bridge. A spur path will be added connecting to Williams Street in New London. The Bridge Street intersection in Groton will also be reconfigured to allow for easier bridge access.

The $55.5 million project, tentatively slated to begin in 2028, will be 90% funded with federal funds and the remainder covered with state money.

The in-person meeting will also be available via Zoom. Registration for the virtual public information meeting is at https://portal.ct.gov/DOTGoldStar94-267VPIM. Registration is required to participate virtually.

Members of the public can submit comments and questions during the two-week public comment period after the meeting. Comments and questions can be submitted by July 8 to DOT.GoldStarBridgeProjects@ct.gov or (860) 594-2020.