May 30, 2008
Benjamin W. Foster PE
Assistant Bridge Maintenance Engineer
Maine Department of Transportation
(207) 624-3423
Dear Municipal Officials:
Attached are the 2007 inspection reports and photos for the municipally owned structures in your town. This is to inform you of the structures conditions so you can decide on the appropriate maintenance activities. All structures require routine maintenance just like our vehicles. If the structures are neglected, they will deteriorate at a quicker rate and become a costly expense for the town. The "Maintaining Local Bridges 1999," published by the Maine Local Roads Center, is a good guide for maintaining your infrastructure.
Annual bridge cleaning is the single best way to preserve the structure. Not only clean the top but remove debris from drains and debris from around the bearings and supports. The cleaning removes the sand and salt from the structure and allows the bridge to dry. A wet structure will deteriorate much quicker than a dry structure.
Also, periodic inspections will help find small problems and allow you to fix them before they become serious. MaineDOT will continue to inspect the structures minimally every 2 years. That extra set of eyes will go a long way in preserving the structure and protecting public safety.
The structures with a condition rating of “poor” or below will receive a certified letter notifying you about the condition of the individual bridges. The letter will describe the areas of concern. This letter will be coming within the next couple months.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 624-3423. If you want the Bridge notebook, call the Local Roads Center at 800-498-9133. |
