Traffic options given for UM graduation

ORONO – The University of Maine’s 206th commencement, scheduled for Saturday at Alfond Arena, will bring an estimated 11,000 people to the campus.

Because most of those graduates and visitors will travel on Interstate 95, significant delays are likely.

Delays of up to one hour have been reported in past years, and the issue is complicated this year by the construction-related closure of one lane near the intersection of I-95 and Interstate 395 in Bangor. That is expected to cause further delays, affecting those traveling from south of Bangor.

UM’s commencement, by far the largest in Maine, each year is divided into two ceremonies. One begins at 10 a.m.; the other at 2:30 p.m. Those planning to attend are encouraged to allow extra time.

Those reaching UM by way of I-95 should consider using Exit 197 and traveling through Old Town to the university’s Park Street entrance, if traffic is significantly backed up at exits closer to Bangor.

UM will operate shuttle bus service from the Steam Plant parking lot, Belgrade lot, Maine Center for the Arts lot and Hilltop lot to Alfond Arena, both before and after the ceremonies.