This fall, residents of both Biddeford and Saco ”“ and visitors ”“ will have something to look forward to as they take to the sidewalks and paths for some exercise.
The pedestrian bridge that will connect the two cities is scheduled to be complete by October.
After some initial difficulties in securing easements from the property owners on either side, we’re pleased to see those issues worked out and the project moving forward.
Despite some snarky comments in the process, all those involved were able to move forward and come to an agreement ”“ to the benefit of both cities and the neighborhoods in which the bridge will be located. It will be a great addition to the mill districts in both cities ”“ connecting the North Dam Mill in Biddeford to Saco Island. Both sites have seen redevelopment of the old, brick mill buildings, both of which are becoming hubs for arts, entertainment and dining.
One of the Saco Island mills hosts a brew pub, while another houses office space and apartments. North Dam Mill is home to dozens of artists’ studios and spaces for other entrepreneurs, like a chocolatier, as well as Heartwood College of Art.
Stakeholders from both sides of the Saco River were recently scheduled to meet with Scott Construction, which was awarded the bid to build the bridge, to discuss the project, including a timeline. Fabricating the bridge will take the majority of the project’s time, and it will be assembled on site. The truss bridge will span 134 feet and be made of steel, with a concrete deck. The bridge will replace an existing steam pipe that is now at the crossing location.
In addition to creating an additional access point for people trying to get from one side of the Saco River to another, this bridge is also an important phase for both cities’ riverwalks.
The first phase of Biddeford’s riverwalk began in 2011 at Mechanics Park, at the intersection of Main and Water streets, and it crosses Main Street into the mill district and ends at an overlook on the North Dam Mill property. In October, walkers will be able to cross the new pedestrian bridge and access Saco’s riverwalk as well.
The riverwalk in Saco was started about 20 years ago, and begins in Pepperell Square. It continues to Front Street and along the river, passes the Saco Yacht Club and the city’s sewer treatment plant, and continues to Hall Avenue and then Main Street. The walk continues on the west side of Main Street, passes the railroad tracks, to a brick walkway located before the yet-to-be-constructed pedestrian bridge, which connects back to Biddeford.
It’s great to see these projects growing and to see the two cites working together to create a fantastic addition to the mill districts. The pedestrian bridge is sure to be a well-used addition to the area.
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Today’s editorial was written by City Editor Robyn Burnham Rousseau 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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