Pine State News

The Maine Department of Transportation is set to construct a roundabout at the intersection of Routes 2 and 7 in Newport. The project aims to enhance safety and mobility in the area, which has been identified as a high-crash zone.

Construction is scheduled to start on Monday, April 14, with completion expected by late 2026. The work will necessitate the full closure of Route 2 at Route 7 within the project area. The construction zone begins 0.04 miles east of Lovely Drive and extends east for 0.22 miles. A detour will be implemented starting April 14 and is expected to remain until November this year. Through-traffic on Route 2 will be redirected via High Street and Banks Road, while local traffic can access businesses using High Street. Meanwhile, through-traffic on Route 11 will still be able to navigate through the intersection.

Gordon Contracting, Inc., based in Sangerville, has been contracted for this project with an approximate contract value of $7 million.

To provide further details about the construction and its implications for local residents, MaineDOT will host an open house on Tuesday, April 1st from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Newport Town Hall located at 23 Water Street, Newport Maine, 04953.

MaineDOT encourages public attendance at this meeting where project staff will be available to answer questions regarding the construction process and its intended outcomes.