The state says it wants to replace, rather than rehabilitate, the Frank Wood Bridge, the steel truss span that connects Brunswick and Topsham and carries Route 201 over the Androscoggin River.
It’s 85 years old, but some local residents and some Brunswick town councilors wanted it rehabilitated. State and federal transportation officials have concluded construction of a new bridge, upstream and next to the existing one, is the best option.
Maine Department of Transportation spokesman Ted Talbot says an important reason to replace is that it would cost more than twice as much to rehab and maintain the existing bridge over its life than to build a new one.
“Also you have improved safety with a new bridge, as well as accommodation for vehicular traffic, bicycle and pedestrian access, as well,” he says.
Talbot says an environmental assessment of the project is expected to be completed in the next few months.
