A few days, ago, a major road construction project commenced on the lower end of Elm Street in Biddeford. As expected, the project has created delays and other impacts for drivers because of necessary detours.
A lot of people have been complaining and asking questions about the project, so the Biddeford Gazette decided to do a little digging. We reached out to the Biddeford’s Public Works, Fire and Police departments
Here are answers to some of the most discussed questions and complaints.
It should also be noted that we reached out to these individuals on Saturday evening, and our e-mails were answered only a few hours later. Do you answer work emails on your day off?
Why not do the project at nighttime when there is less traffic?
According to both the city and the contractor, doing the work at night would triple the project cost. The noise would also adversely impact residential neighborhoods, and the detours would still need to be in place.
Why keep the detours in place 24/7 even when there is no work being done?
According to Public Works director Jeff Demers: “There is no room to stack vehicles on Elm, causing side street and business entrances being blocked if we opened and closed daily and weekends. Also, it would require contractor to close hole tightly and would be very time consuming, to say the least. The decision was made to keep detour through out project. Patience will be key.”
How will this project impact emergency responders near the project area?
According to Biddeford Fire Chief Lawrence Best, “we have access to all the areas around the construction site. We also worked with Saco to have the SFD respond jointly with us to the area north of the railroad bridge on Elm Street. This is a joint response for both fire and EMS calls to try and ensure there are no delays.
“With regards to getting through standing traffic, we have special traffic pre-emption lights on our vehicles which turn the traffic lights to green in the direction we are traveling which helps move cars forward and out of the way. We have also preplanned alternate routes to try to avoid some the traffic congestion if possible.
How much will the project cost?
Biddeford is estimating $3 million; the Maine Water company is estimating $2 million for its role in the project.
How long will the project last?
It is anticipated that this project will be completed in early November.
Why not have an automated traffic light near the project site to allow alternating traffic flow?
Public Works Director Jeff Demers: “Lights on Elm was thought through, but there would be no room to stack vehicles on Elm Street, causing side street and business entrances being blocked. Motorists would have gotten confused if we opened and closed daily and weekends. Also causing contractor to close hole tightly.”
What is this project, and why do we have to do it now?
Major road construction projects cannot be done during winter months. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection has been pushing Biddeford to do this state-mandated project for several years.
Ultimately, this project is designed to separate sewer and storm water.
RELATED: Biddeford’s Big Dig Will Begin in April
Editor’s Note: If you have questions or concerns about the project, please contact us, and we’ll do our best to get you timely and accurate information.
Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!
THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 
Hello Randy, Maybe a questi
LikeLike