NEW PORTLAND – The Maine Department of Transportation wants to begin the engineering work needed to develop preliminary plans for proposed future improvements to two bridges on Route 16 in New Portland.

Before proceeding with engineering work for improvements to Bartlett Bridge over Gilman Stream and Harris Brook Bridge over Harris Brook in North New Portland, the department wants to hear from local drivers and residents.

Maine DOT representatives will be at the Fire Station at 911 River Road in New Portland at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 23, to listen to comments and concerns, to answer questions, and to make sure all transportation needs are being addressed. The department is particularly interested in hearing local views regarding the consistency of the project with local comprehensive plans and in identifying local resources, concerns and issues.

Other specific issues to be discussed at the meeting include future road widths, road alignments, traffic impacts during construction, and construction timing.

Anyone with an interest in the project is invited to attend and participate in the meeting.