Maine news, sports, weather from Waterville Morning Sentinel

DOT to replace U.S. 2 bridge in September

By Scott Monroe smonroe@mainetoday.com
Staff Writer

PITTSFIELD -- An old bridge that carries busy U.S. Route 2 over Sibley Pond is scheduled to be replaced under a state project that starts in September.

Also, in response to community concerns, state officials are taking steps to maintain public access to a key boat launch, minimize truck noise and keep car traffic flowing.

The Sibley Pond bridge was built in 1939 and crosses the boundary separating Canaan and Pittsfield.

Pittsfield resident Walter Deckert, who lives on top of a hill a half-mile from the bridge, said he supports the bridge replacement.

"It's got a curve in it I don't like; they'll make it straight," Deckert said. "It has no walkway now, so it's dangerous. There are a lot of truck drivers that go by."

Although the $7.9 million project gets under way this fall, the new bridge isn't expected to be finished for another year or two, Pittsfield Town Manager Kathryn Ruth said.

The Maine Department of Transportation has selected Lane Construction Corp., of Bangor, and Parsons Brinckerhoff as the firms to handle the design and build project.

"It's deteriorating quickly -- probably past its useful life," Ruth said Monday. "Obviously, anytime a bridge structure deteriorates, we're pleased it can be replaced in a timely fashion."

During bridge construction, state officials said a temporary, two-lane bridge will be built so traffic can continue flowing on U.S. Route 2.

During a state transportation public hearing on Aug. 23 in Pittsfield, residents of some of the 60 lots along Sibley Pond Road spoke about their concerns, Ruth said.

Several residents said they were concerned about maintaining the only public access to Sibley Pond -- an unofficial boat launch on an old right of way -- and state officials said they would keep the boat launch intact before and after construction, according to Ruth.

State officials also are looking at ways of reducing truck noise on the bridge, such as a wall, and making sure that traffic slows when coming down a steep hill from Pittsfield.

"The Department of Transportation has been very understanding," Ruth said.

Scott Monroe -- 861-9239

smonroe@centralmaine.com