Saco must decide on Stackpole Bridge plan
The Stackpole Creek Bridge in Saco is in need of major renovations or replacement, and it is time for the city to decide what to do with the bridge.
The city council held a workshop last week at which they heard the options for replacement ”“ at a cost of $1.2 million ”“ from City Engineer Angela Blanchette. Blanchette also stressed that the city is at a point where it needs to make a decision.
The city has restricted the load capacity on the bridge and only one-way traffic is allowed, Blanchette said. A recent report by CLD Consulting Engineers said the rate of deterioration has increased this past year, and that if any further movement occurs it is “highly probable” the bridge would have to be closed.
While some residents are pushing for rehabilitation of the old stone bridge, it is clear that the city needs to act before a dangerous situation or accident occurs. One major rain storm could impact the bridge’s movement, and if a vehicle ”“ or person ”“ were to cross before it could be inspected for damage, it could lead to injuries or worse, should the structure become unstable.
We hope the council will act on the future of Stackpole Creek Bridge soon to ensure no accidents happen that could be prevented.
Sanford road funds should be approved
Sanford’s municipal budget for next year contains a proposed $1 million appropriation for road repair and maintenance.
We’re pleased to see Town Manager Mark Green recommending this appropriation to try and get a handle on the town’s deteriorating roadways.
Road work is expensive, and for a town like Sanford, there is much of it with which to keep up. But investing year after year is key to keeping paving plan costs manageable and town roads navigable.
Many municipal officials and board members around the region will tell people that the most complaints they get are about taxes and roads. Roads in this state require a lot of maintenance and work to keep them smooth, safe and pothole-free. So naturally, spending money is the only way to keep them in good condition.
Letting roads deteriorate could cost a lot more in the long run, when many roads throughout the town could need rebuilding at the same time. The town would be well-served to invest a substantial amount each year in upkeep, with major work outlined in a long-term paving plan.
The Town of Sanford is on the right track, and we hope residents and Town Meeting voters will see the “wisdom” in the decision by Green and the council to send the budget forward with sufficient funding for road work.
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Today’s editorial was written by City Editor Robyn Burnham on behalf of the Journal Tribune Editorial Board. Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Kristen Schulze Muszynski by calling 282-1535, Ext. 322, or via email at kristenm@journaltribune.com.
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