MaineDOT announced today that the new Bath Viaduct will be opened to traffic next week, approximately 25 days ahead of schedule. Subject to weather in the next few days, MaineDOT contractors expect to complete laying the membrane, paving and striping the surface of the new viaduct in time to open the roadway to traffic at some point before Friday, May 5th. In doing so, the team of MaineDOT engineers and the contractors will have completed in approximately 195 days what took 729 days when the original viaduct was constructed.

MaineDOT Resident Glenn Philbrook attributes the accomplishment to "absolutely outstanding work by our lead contractor, Reed & Reed, and their ability to put the manpower and resources on the project to exceed expectations." Philbrook went on to say, "This has been a well-coordinated effort from day-one, with a can-do attitude shared by MaineDOT and all the contractors."

While the new viaduct will be opened to traffic, work will continue on surface streets and frontage roads underneath and adjacent to the viaduct. Philbrook stated, "We will be landscaping medians, constructing 1600 feet of new sidewalks, placing granite curbing and paving and striping surface streets." MaineDOT is coordinating with the city of Bath and local businesses to execute an integrated landscaping plan. Philbrook stated, "With new traffic signals, pedestrian crossings and under-bridge lighting, the end result is going to be a great improvement for Downtown Bath." The final stage of work will continue through the end of July. MaineDOT advises that traffic impacts should be minimal, with some lane closures as the work progresses.

MaineDOT continues to encourage Bath area residents and drivers to stay informed about the project by visiting mainedot.gov and by signing up for email alerts.