02/10/2020 10:24 AM EST: PROSPECT - The Penobscot Narrows Bridge is reopened to vehicle traffic. It was closed for a total of 40 minutes. During that time, the ice the DOT was concerned about fell off the bridge cables.

PROSPECT — The Maine Department of Transportation is closing the Penobscot Narrows Bridge to vehicle traffic because of falling ice. As the sun warms the ice that has formed on the bridge, there is a danger of that ice sliding off in sheets and falling onto the bridge deck.

The bridge connects Waldo and Hancock counties between Prospect and Verona. It spans the Penobscot River just below Bucksport.

“This is not the first time we have closed the bridge to traffic out of an abundance of caution,” the DOT said, in a Feb. 10 news release. (See Penobscot Narrows observatory opening delayed) “There is a detour in place. We have activated our message boards to alert travelers.”

The DOT will push out new information once it is able to safely reopen the bridge, but it may be closed until early afternoon, the agency said.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding,” the DOT said.