Southport bridge project moves past bump in the road
Motorists going to and from Southport were delayed after an afternoon mechanical failure on the swing bridge over Townsend Gut July 5. Car traffic resumed several hours later, and Maine Department of Transportation said marine traffic is on a normal schedule.
MaineDOT spokesman Andrew C. Gobeil told the Register the bridge closed too far and needed to be realigned with the roadway. He said an investigation is ongoing.
According to Gobeil, the bridge opens on the hour and half-hour between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. from April 29 to Sept. 30 after an opening request is given. He said the bridge opens on request outside those hours and dates.
Overall, he said the bridge project is expected to be completed by the end of July. “There are a few minor items that are being completed, but they will not impact the operation of the bridge.”