It looks like Alna's share of replacing Ben Brook Bridge on Egypt Road will run about $41,000, versus the $167,000 once thought, Second Selectman Steve Graham said Nov. 6.

Updating the board and public at the town office and over Zoom, Graham said the anticipated smaller chip-in is due to "talking and working with (Maine Department of Transportation). I think they're anxious to have the project done ... and they're very responsive," he said.

"They're moving ahead with the rights of way that we need to do. All the environmental stuff has been completed," and soon the local permitting will be sought, Graham said. 

Due to the federal shutdown, MaineDOT recommended Alna wait on seeking bids on the steel, expected to cost about $52,000, Graham said. He was concerned the town will not be able to fully spend its $125,000 Department of Environmental Protection grant that expires at year's end. He awaits word on his request to extend that deadline "given the extraordinary circumstances of the now record (federal) shutdown," he said.

However, he said even if that grant runs out, MaineDOT has expressed confidence enough funds have been budgeted to cover construction. Graham said construction is likely for 2026.

Resident Ralph Hilton continued his opposition to the million-dollar project, calling it "a Golden Gate Bridge," when, he said, only maintenance is needed. Graham said repairs had been figured at over half a million dollars, and this project instead will make a "dramatic" environmental improvement, aiding fish passage.

Added Third Selectman Coreysha Stone, going this route results in the state's being the one to maintain the bridge. "That was the biggest incentive for this town, because eventually we would have (had) to do something again, but now we won't." 

Also Nov. 6, Road Commissioner Mike Trask said Lothrop Road's resurfacing is done. And Dock Road Extension will be paved around mid-month, Trask said. He said an email announcement will go out because the extension will be closed so the paver can be run "down the whole road, all at once ... no seam, just perfect."

Resident Helen Rasmussen suggested the town discuss barring all trucks' use of engine brakes on Route 218 on the hill that ends at Head Tide Road. She said those brakes' use is "so loud," reverberates and has become more prevalent. 

"How do you expect (trucks) to stop," Trask asked. "That engine brake helps the trucks stop  ... That's a tremendous hill." Pursuing a lower speed limit there might be better, he said.

Any speed limit change would be up to the state, First Selectman Nick Johnston confirmed via email Nov. 7.

Stone announced the board will take public comment on the draft mining ordinance Nov. 20 and have a final draft ready Dec. 4 for town counsel to review. A hearing is eyed for Jan. 15, and would be Jan. 29 "at the latest," she said.