Local residents hoping to find out about the latest Bay Bridge construction work, closures and other news will not be able to do so on the span’s snazzy website, which has been shuttered after the dissolution of a public relations contract.

With its litany of explanatory videos, graphics and in-depth analysis of ongoing projects, www.baybridgeinfo.org often served as a useful resource for folks interested in the latest happenings on the span.

Last year, however, Gov. Jerry Brown nixed a $9 million contract with Words Pictures Ideas, the public relations firm that maintained the website and handled all outreach responsibilities for the Bay Bridge. Brown said the contract was excessive and not a proper use of toll funds.

Along with taking down the website, the contract termination also meant that Bart Ney, the longtime public face for all things bridge related, is no longer the main spokesman for the project. His last day on the job was Jan. 8, according to officials with Caltrans, the state transportation department.

For now, residents can receive information about the Bay Bridge at Caltrans’ website, www.dot.ca.gov. Caltrans, the Bay Area Toll Authority and the California Transportation Commission will now handle outreach for the span.

wreisman@sfexaminer.com