Rumford ? Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) announced today that the US Department of Transportation will award a TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) grant in the amount of $5.2 million to the state for the replacement of the Martin Memorial Bridge in the town of Rumford.
Senator Collins called MaineDOT Commissioner David Bernhardt Tuesday morning to inform him of the funding. This amount will go toward the total bridge replacement cost of $9.3 million. Work is scheduled to begin in October of 2013.
Commissioner Bernhardt toured the bridge with Senator Collins last month. ?As we continue to address the transportation needs of the state, I want to thank Senator Collins for helping to facilitate these funds on behalf of all Mainers,? said Commissioner Bernhardt. ?It proves once again, leaders of our state are focused on improvements to our infrastructure that promises safe travel for generations to come.?
The Federal Highway Administration classified the 57-year old bridge as ?structurally deficient.?
?As a leader of the Senate Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, safe and reliable transportation infrastructure is one of my top priorities,? said Senator Collins. ?I am doing all I can to help ensure that important investments are made in our nation?s transportation system, which supports so many jobs in Maine and across the country.?