Pine State News

The Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) is set to begin construction on a new 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 will commence on Monday, April 7th, with completion expected by late 2026. The project requires the full closure of Route 2 at Route 7 within the designated area. Work will start 0.04 miles east of Lovely Drive and extend east for 0.22 miles. A detour will be implemented starting Monday, April 14th, anticipated to last through November this year. Through-traffic on Route 2 will be rerouted via High Street and Banks Road, while local traffic can access businesses using High Street. Meanwhile, through-traffic on Route 11 will continue to pass through the intersection without disruption.

Gordon Contracting, Inc., based in Sangerville, has been awarded the contract for this project valued at approximately $7 million.

To inform residents about the upcoming changes and gather public input, MaineDOT has scheduled an open house event on Tuesday, April 1st. Originally planned for Newport Town Hall at 23 Water Street, it will now take place at the Public Safety Building located at 21 Water Street from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

"MaineDOT invites and encourages all interested members of the public to attend this meeting to get information pertaining to the construction, its intended outcome, and what those changes mean for local residents," stated a spokesperson from MaineDOT. Project staff will be available during the event to address any questions from attendees.