NAPLES – Voters in a nonbinding straw poll favor replacing the Naples Bay Bridge with another swing bridge.

In the 484-339 vote conducted Tuesday as part of voting for municipal elections, most people supported putting in a moveable swing bridge, with costs exceeding $11 million to be borne by Naples, other towns, businesses, and the Army Corps of Engineers.

The other option was for an $8 million fixed bridge and accompanying enlargement and stabilization of the causeway, with all costs covered by the Maine Department of Transportation.

The 54-year-old bridge spans the Chute River between Long Lake and Brandy Pond. The DOT estimates a new swing bridge will cost $14.5 million, while a fixed span will cost $8 million.

Proponents of the fixed bridge argue that it will allow for a smoother flow of traffic, including emergency vehicles, over Route 302. Opponents said a fixed bridge will harm the area’s economy because the 12-foot span will prevent sailboats and other taller watercraft from passing under it.