Controversial project

… The Maine Department of Transportation is presently operating outside the intent of the new state transportation policy.

We citizens of Bridgton have no choice but to invoke that portion of the new law that pertains to the mandatory alternative analysis.

The department plans to reconstruct a 1-mile stretch of road, presently 20 feet wide, into a 34-foot road. We feel, after extensive investigation, that this project is too severe as proposed, and that this road can be improved with far less negative impact.

This project is subject to the new law, which mandates consideration of alternatives with preference given to non-widening measures. This approach has not been followed, despite our continued efforts to bring important issues to the forefront. In fact, local contractors and roadbuilders are working in concert with town selectmen to push for a wider than 34-foot road….

With so much to discuss on this controversial project, all evidence must be heard and the department must be responsive and accountable for its actions. In addition, it must be exposed for its apparent inconsistencies. There are inaccuracies in facts, figures, and maps, and we dispute much of their collected data….

We have called for an alternative analysis to be in compliance with state and federal law. More than $2 million in federal funds is earmarked for this 1-mile reconstruction (in addition to $1 million in state funds). This money will be a better investment of our federal tax dollars when spent on a public transportation network. Richard Murphy Bridgton