MADAWASKA - The Maine Department of Transportation will be conducting its annual inspection of the International Bridge in Madawaska next week. This inspection will involve daily traffic closures to ensure the safety of both the traveling public and the crews inspecting the bridge. Drivers should expect closures between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. EST from Monday, June 15th through Friday, June 19th. The sidewalk will remain open during the inspection. The bridge is due to be inspected in July, but we are doing the work in June to coincide with the current federal travel restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Accelerating this work by a month will minimize the impact on the traveling public.
The structure has known deficiencies, structural concerns, and a rapid rate of deterioration that need to be properly evaluated annually to allow for continued safe use. Bridge inspections are performed during daylight hours to ensure safety, thoroughness, and the quality of the inspection. The engineering firm performing the inspection, HNTB, is familiar with the structure and has performed a detailed analysis related to the loading of the structure. HNTB plans to use an Under Bridge Inspection Truck (UBIT). The UBIT will be placed in a manner to minimize stresses on the bridge.
MaineDOT understands the impacts to the neighboring communities and appreciates the public's patience as we work to keep this bridge safe until we replace it. The replacement project is scheduled to go out to bid later this year.