Eight prominent business leaders in the Ipswich area have written an open letter calling to build the Northern Bypass and not go back to the "dark ages".
National Highways began working to remove and replace two bridge expansion joints on the westbound carriageway of the A14 Orwell Bridge last month.
These works have been described as "essential" and are expected to run through until August- however, they have affected trade for businesses due to the knock-on traffic issues they have caused.
Eight business leaders have now signed a letter calling for urgent action to be taken on the bridge, which includes reopening discussion on a Northern Bypass or a "clear and practical" alternative solution.
He added: "We need a Northern Bypass as soon as possible, because it is costing businesses so much money.
"The current situation is ridiculous, and it is not going to get any better. There is more and more traffic in the country, not less, and the county council seem to be very backwards-thinking.
"They are too worried about some people who are against the bypass, but everyone gets used to it, like I have 2,200 homes being built near me, I am not particularly happy about it, but you have to get used to it."
He also raised concerns about how a concrete bridge has a limited lifetime, and was worried about when the Orwell Bridge would have cracks.
She said: "As one of the largest employers in Ipswich, we believe it is important to raise our concerns about the negative impact that works on the Orwell Bridge are having on the town and region.
"While we will proactively engage with local authorities and transport providers to improve public transport and cycling opportunities, we are concerned about the lack of a viable road alternative to the Orwell Bridge.
"The travel delays limit the potential for economic growth in Ipswich and Suffolk and cause great individual frustration.”
He said: “I felt compelled (to sign the letter) for two reasons.
"Firstly, many of our staff have been adversely affected in terms of getting to work because of the ongoing traffic issues in and around the Orwell Bridge.
"Secondly, the financial impact that the disruption has caused on businesses – many of whom work with us as industry partners – has been immense.
"So I wanted to show a sense of solidarity to them. Therefore, in short, I think now is the time to look at alternative solutions – and the bypass is clearly one of those solutions.”
Paul Ager, Associated British Ports' divisional manager, also signed the letter.
A spokesperson for the organisation said: "As a pivotal logistics hub, the Port of Ipswich plays a vital role in supporting the regional economy, facilitating the flow of goods and services for countless businesses across Suffolk and beyond.
"The disruption caused by the recent works on the Orwell Bridge has resulted in logistical challenges not just for ABP, but for our customers and partners throughout the supply chain.
"We believe that the time has come to seriously reconsider long-term infrastructure solutions, including the reopening of discussions around a Northern Bypass. A resilient and future-proof transport network is essential if Ipswich is to continue thriving as a centre of commerce and industry."
The letter was organised by Ipswich Central, the business improvement district for the county town.
He said: "I understand why all the Ipswich businesses would get behind making a Northern Bypass, but to unlock the funding, we would need to build 1,500 homes in the north of Ipswich.
"Maybe opinions could have changed since the last time, but I would ask if Mid Suffolk and East Suffolk councils would want the additional homes."
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