Maine Receives Funding Needed To Replace Memorial Bridge

AUGUSTA—Senator Dawn Hill (D-York) released the following statement in response to the United States Department of Transportation’s obligation of $20 million in TIGER funds for the reconstruction of the Maine-New Hampshire Memorial Bridge.

“This is exciting news for Maine,” said Sen. Hill. “This funding ensures that the gateway to Maine is is open, safe, and accessible to Maine people and businesses.”

The total cost of replacing the Memorial Bridge is expected to be $90 million. Both New Hampshire and Maine have each obligated $35 million toward the project but the remaining federal dollars were needed in order for the project to get off the ground. Without the money, the bridge would be closed to traffic.

“This is a great example of government working well. This could not have happened without all levels of government working together beginning with local residents and businesses on up to our federal delegation in D.C.,” said Hill.

Sen. Hill’s leadership has been key to securing the funding for the Memorial Bridge. She has worked with both Administrations as well as the state delegations from both Maine and New Hampshire.

In October 2010, the Bi-State Funding Task Force was established and in its final report, the bridges were identified as a priority for repair and rehabilitation. To view the Bi-State Bridge Funding Task Force report, go to www.maine.gov/mdot.