Work continues on several streets in Augusta this week. Care should be taken on Ganneston Drive, Hartford Square, Cony Street and North Belfast Avenue.

Augusta Public Works Director John Charest said curb and sidewalk upgrades are continuing on Ganneston Drive and should be wrapped up in another week or so.

Some minor work near the Augusta Fire Department headquarters on Hartford Square should be completed fairly quickly and not interfere with traffic.

Work is winding up on some traffic islands near the intersection of Cony Street and Route 105. Those who are encountering the intersection for the first time will find that some adjustment will be required entering and exiting the intersection.

Drivers on North Belfast Avenue proceeding in the vicinity of North Pearl Street should be prepared this week for alternating, single-lane traffic this week as work continues on this major artery into Augusta.

Gardiner bridge work continues

Motorists are reminded to seek alternate routes to crossing the Pearl Harbor Remembrance Bridge in Gardiner and Randolph.

The bridge, which connects U.S. Route 201 in Gardiner with Routes 9, 27 and 126 in Randolph,
is undergoing some much-needed repairs. According to the Maine Department of Transportation, travel will be restricted to one lane in each direction on the bridge through the project’s expected completion in October.

Meanwhile, the DOT has modified its original plans pertaining to pedestrian crossings on the bridge. Initially, the construction crews had planned on prohibiting pedestrian traffic on the bridge — but now, pedestrians will be able to cross as often as construction workers deem appropriate based on safety issues.

There will still be some days during the course of the construction project that the bridge will be closed to pedestrians. Signs will be posted on the bridge at least a day before such closures to alert pedestrians.

When completed, the bridge repairs are expected to save travel time and minimize congestion. While the project is under way, motorists are advised to avoid using the bridge if possible. State transportation officials recommend that eastbound and westbound travelers use the Augusta bridges or the so-called “swing bridge” in Richmond. Northbound and southbound traffic should stay on Interstate 295 and use the Augusta or Richmond crossings.

State transportation officials recommend that motorists who must use the bridge plan on allowing extra time for their trip and travel during off-peak hours.

Tips, problem traffic areas and questions can be e-mailed to A. J. Higgins at:
ajhiggins@centralmaine.com