BETHEL – The fate of a proposed bridge replacement project in Bethel is to rest in the hands of voters attending a special town meeting tonight at the town office.

Selectmen and three members from the Budget Committee are recommending approval to take up to $40,000 from surplus to replace Rabbit Road Bridge

The 21-foot-long span over Alder River provides access to three homes. It is adjacent to Route 26 and just south of Hancock Lumber.

Should voters agree to spend the money, the project would be scheduled to be completed by Christmas.

According to a 2005 Bridge Inspection Report by the Maine Department of Transportation, Rabbit Road Bridge has holes through its web of beams and the abutments are being crushed.

The DOT recommended posting the span for passenger vehicles only or 3 tons.

“If the bridge is not replaced or repaired very soon, it should be closed to protect life and property of the public,” wrote DOT assistant bridge maintenance engineer John E. Buxton in a Sept. 20 letter to Bethel officials.