ANDOVER – Construction work begins early next month on a new bridge on the South Arm Road over Black Brook.
Benjamin Foster, Maine Department of Transportation project engineer, said the contract for the project was awarded to T. Buck Construction of Auburn at a cost of $520,777. A pre-construction meeting is scheduled for Friday, July 1.
The current steel-beamed and timber decked 30-foot-long bridge was built in 1934. It is part of the only road that leads to Lower Richardson Lake located in Township D, said Foster. An average of 150 cars a day use the bridge, with that number swelling during the summer months. It accesses about 15 permanent residences and two campgrounds. The abutments are constructed of stone.
The new bridge will be about 50 feet long and made of concrete. Guardrails will line both sides.
Foster said building the bridge will likely take the entire construction season through November. Some paving may have to be completed next spring.
During construction, a temporary bridge will be erected across the brook. Foster said travelers will experience temporary stoppages.
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