As previously announced, construction crews working on Tukeys Bridge have erected a concrete barrier that separates Washington Avenue from I-295 Northbound, making Washington Avenue a local road. This concrete barrier completely closes off Exit 8 from northbound I-295 traffic. Motorists should expect delays during the evening commute.
?Because drivers will temporarily not have access to and from Washington Avenue and I-295 North, we?re recommending two official detour routes,? said MaineDOT Bridge Program Manager David Sherlock.
?I-295 drivers wishing to access Washington Avenue outbound from Portland should detour at Exit 6B onto Forest Avenue to Ocean Avenue to Washington Avenue,? Sherlock explained. ?From in-town Portland, drivers can access I-295 North from Washington Avenue via Congress Street and Franklin Street Arterial.?
MaineDOT advises motorists that there will be backups during the evening commute and that commuters should consider carpooling, taking the bus, and adjusting afternoon work schedules in order to reduce traffic congestion between 4 and 7 p.m.
?Portland is still open for business and easily accessible,? Sherlock said. ?But northbound travelers who are not planning to stop at Portland should consider taking the Maine Turnpike.?
Work continues elsewhere on I-295 as well. However, over the Memorial Day weekend, from 6 a.m. Friday through 7 p.m. Tuesday, there will be no construction activity although long-term lane and ramp closures will remain in effect.
Drivers on I-295 are advised to pay close attention to signage connected with the repair work especially signs indicating reduced speed zones. For more information, maps, and to sign up for email alerts, please go to mainedot.gov.
This effort is part of a substantial I-295 repair and improvement project that will be ongoing through the fall of this year. Roadway and bridge repair work has been structured to minimize the impact on motorists while improving the safety and enjoyment of traveling one of Maine?s most popular highways.
MaineDOT appreciates the patience of all motorists during this construction period, and also asks motorists to drive safely through all work zones.