THOMASTON — Originally estimated to take two and a half years to complete, the new Cushing Road bridge in Thomaston is now open to traffic. The Maine Department of Transportation first scheduled the bridge to be replaced in October 2013 and new construction began in November 2014. Construction was expected to take two years according to Guy Hews, resident engineer for the state of Maine.

The new bridge is constructed out of a new type of composite beam construction and carried a price tag of $2.5 million. The old Cushing Road bridge was constructed in 1926 and is scheduled to be torn down now that the new bridge is open.

Related story:

• New Cushing Road bridge in Thomaston to be built with fiberglass composite beams

In other news for Thomaston

Thomaston Route 1 Project to Resume After Labor Day

— Beginning Tuesday, Sept. 6, crews will be back working from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. on the Route 1 reconstruction in Thomaston. There will be one lane of alternating traffic, assisted by flaggers.

All businesses will be accessible.

This work is part of an $8.4 million road reconstruction project that will result in not only a smoother, safer Route 1 but also:

• New sidewalks on both sides through the town
• Sidewalk bump-outs to calm traffic
• New storm drains
• Slip lane at the intersection of Oyster River Road to minimize delays
• “No Right on Red” traffic signals at the intersection of Beechwood and Knox streets to simplify the intersection to improve safety
• New parking configuration on Main Street to improve safety and mobility

Construction is weather-dependent, so schedules are subject to change.

It is anticipated all work will be completed in November of 2017.